Mental Illness: Arguing/Fighting - Is There a Disorder?

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In summary, the conversation discusses mental health and whether there is a specific disorder characterized by persistent arguing and fighting. It is suggested that this behavior may be classified as a personality disorder or could be a symptom of bipolar disorder. However, it is also noted that diagnosing individuals without expertise is not recommended and that the DSM is not always a reliable tool. It is advised to seek a qualified individual for information and diagnosis rather than relying on the internet.
  • #1
neuro.akn
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I am seeking information regarding mental health. I am wondering if there is a mental illness, disorder, syndrome, etc. that is characterized by persistent arguing/fighting? Is there an adult version or form of the oppositional defiant disorder? Almost as if the individual is addicted to arguing and gets off on it; as if they get a high while they are arguing and simply continues to persist.
Thanks in advance.
 
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  • #4
It can be a part of a a personality disorder or bipolar disorder especially when the individual is undergoing manic episode. However, you should also consider their personality type as we can categorize personalities such as Type A (hardworkers, argumentative, etc. which relates to serious types), Type B (casual, balanced, social, and etc. which relates to individuals who are, well you know balanced, something between Type A and Type C), and lastly Type C (those who are passive, pessimistic, etc. which relates to those who are usually having difficulties with interpersonal relationships)

Sorry my source is only what I learned back in the university.
 
  • #5
  • #6
R136a1 said:
What happened to the rule that we wouldn't diagnoze people on this forum?

Hi. I'd just like to ask what might be wrong for putting possible diagnosis? :redface:
 
  • #7
R136a1 said:
What happened to the rule that we wouldn't diagnoze people on this forum?

This isn't a diagnosis, someone is asking if there exists a condition that causes a symptom.
 
  • #8
Who knows when it's just based off a simple symptom of arguing. The DSM generally requires extensive symptom matching.

When it comes to opposition defiance disorder (ODD) it is commonly a precursor to conduct disorder (CD) [1] which is often a precursor to anti-social personality disorder (ASPD) [2]. This course of illnesses is also often comorbid with ADHD, anxiety, and mood disorders [3].

[1] http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/8408986
[2] http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/1488492
[3] http://www.aacap.org/AACAP/Families...nal_Defiant_Disorder_Resource_Center/FAQ.aspx
 
  • #9
Does it matter whether there's a DSM label for this behaviour? What exactly is the explanatory difference between saying that a person gets off on arguing and that they suffer from, say, Argumentative Personality Disorder? Would the absence of a label for this particular form of behaviour make it any less dysfunctional?
 
  • #10
Truth be told, without expertise, you have no place diagnosing people even if they do follow DSM guidelines.

And people can demonstrate obsessive compulsive traits without having obsessive compulsive disorder. Diagnosing something as a mental illness requires they meet the three criteria (1 - symptoms cause significant distress, 2 - interference with work/personal life/etc, 3 - not culturally normal behavior).

Furthermore, even the DSM has been withdrawn from support by NIMH:

http://www.psychologytoday.com/blog/side-effects/201305/the-nimh-withdraws-support-dsm-5

because of the highly subjective aspects of it even when wielded by experts.

"The weakness” of the manual, he explained in a sharply worded statement, “is its lack of validity.” “Unlike our definitions of ischemic heart disease, lymphoma, or AIDS, the DSM diagnoses are based on a consensus about clusters of clinical symptoms, not any objective laboratory measure."
 
  • #11
From the information given it the original post of this thread, a diagnosis can not be made.
As seen the answers to even the basic question had different answers.

Since this statement was made "I am seeking information regarding mental health."

I would advise seeking a qualified individual to ask your questions to, not the internet.
 

1. What is meant by "arguing/fighting disorder" in relation to mental illness?

"Arguing/fighting disorder" is not a recognized disorder in the field of mental health. It is often used colloquially to describe a pattern of behavior where a person engages in frequent and intense arguments or fights with others. This behavior may be a symptom of an underlying mental illness, but it is not considered a specific disorder on its own.

2. Can arguing or fighting be a symptom of a mental illness?

Yes, frequent and intense arguments or fights can be symptoms of certain mental illnesses. For example, individuals with borderline personality disorder may have difficulty controlling their emotions and may engage in arguments or fights as a result. However, it is important to note that not everyone who argues or fights frequently has a mental illness.

3. How can I tell the difference between normal arguments and those caused by a mental illness?

The line between normal arguments and those caused by a mental illness can be blurry. It is important to pay attention to the frequency and intensity of the arguments, as well as any patterns or triggers that may be present. If you are concerned that you or someone you know may have a mental illness, it is best to seek the help of a mental health professional for a proper diagnosis.

4. What types of mental illnesses may contribute to arguments or fights?

Several mental illnesses can contribute to arguments or fights, including borderline personality disorder, bipolar disorder, and disruptive behavior disorders. However, it is important to note that each individual is unique and may experience these behaviors for different reasons. Therefore, it is best to consult with a mental health professional for an accurate diagnosis.

5. How can arguments or fights caused by a mental illness be managed or treated?

The treatment for arguments or fights caused by a mental illness will depend on the specific illness and individual needs. In general, therapy and medication may be used to address the underlying mental health issue and teach healthy coping strategies for managing conflicts. It is important to work with a mental health professional to develop a personalized treatment plan.

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