Prevalence of avoidant personality disorder among university students: In light of some demographic variables

Abstract

This study aims to investigate the prevalence of Avoidant Personality Disorder (AvPD) among university students in Saudi Arabia and to examine the differences in AvPD levels according to specific demographic variables such as gender and academic level. The study adopted a comparative descriptive method and included a randomly selected sample of 400 male and female students from three Saudi universities: Imam Muhammad Ibn Saud Islamic University, Tabuk University, and King Abdulaziz University. The researchers utilized the Avoidant Personality Disorder Scale developed by Ibrahim et al. [1] after verifying its psychometric properties within the Saudi context. Findings revealed statistically significant differences in certain dimensions of AVPD related to gender and academic level. The results emphasize the importance of early detection of AVPD traits in university settings and highlight the need for preventive and counseling programs to support students at risk and promote mental well-being in academic environments.