Avoidant personality disorder (AVPD) is a condition characterized by social inhibition. Individuals diagnosed with avoidant personality are typically hypersensitive to criticism and fixate on what others think of them. As a result, they withdraw from situations in which they may be judged. Avoidant personality is classified as a personality disorder in the DSM-5, and it’s widely understood that there is no “cure” for personality disorders. But with treatment and therapy, copious research suggests symptoms can be improved, and individuals with avoidant personality can build healthy, close relationships.