A worker is characterized by her co-workers as 'painfully shy' and lacking in self-confidence. Her co-workers say she stays in her cubicle all day, never coming out for breaks or lunch. One day after falling on the ice in the parking lot, she goes to the nurse's office, where she apologizes for falling and mentions that she hopes the company will not fire her for being so clumsy. With which diagnosis is this presentation most consistent?
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: The correct answer is A: Avoidant. This diagnosis is consistent because the worker exhibits characteristics of extreme shyness, lack of self-confidence, social avoidance, and fear of rejection or criticism. By apologizing excessively for a simple accident and expressing worry about being fired for it, the worker's behavior aligns with the avoidance of social situations and excessive concern about negative evaluation typical of Avoidant Personality Disorder.
Choice B: Dependent, does not fit as the worker is not displaying excessive need for others to take responsibility for major areas of her life.
Choice C: Histrionic, is not a match as this disorder is characterized by attention-seeking behavior, which is not evident in the worker's presentation.
Choice D: Paranoid, is not the correct diagnosis as the worker does not display distrust or suspiciousness towards others.