Which term best describes negative patterns of thinking often found in personality disorders?

The term that best describes negative patterns of thinking often found in personality disorders is maladaptive thinking. This type of thinking is characterized by thoughts and beliefs that are dysfunctional and can lead to negative outcomes. Individuals with personality disorders may have rigid and distorted thinking patterns that contribute to their emotional distress and interpersonal difficulties.

Maladaptive thinking includes cognitive distortions such as all-or-nothing thinking, overgeneralization, and catastrophizing, which can perpetuate unhealthy behaviors and emotional responses. For someone with a personality disorder, these negative thought patterns can significantly impair their ability to cope with stress, maintain healthy relationships, and engage in effective problem-solving.

In contrast, adaptive thinking refers to thoughts that are flexible, realistic, and constructive, which can enhance well-being and interpersonal functioning. Constructive criticism implies providing feedback in a way that is helpful, focusing on growth rather than negative patterns, while realistic perception suggests an accurate interpretation of situations that typically facilitates better outcomes rather than contributing to dysfunction. Thus, maladaptive thinking is the most appropriate term to describe the negative cognitive patterns often observed in personality disorders.