Avoidant personality disorder VS introversion

[Mustard Bomb]

What is the difference between avoidant personality disorder and normal introversion? I gooogled, and found the diagnostic criteria for the disorder, but am curious about the difference between the two. Is introversion lacking in anxiety/dysfunctions?

 

One of my parents is a self-proclaimed proud introvert, so I'm interested in introversion theory, in general, if anyone has any information, books, or good links.

[moimeme]

Generally, a disorder is only considered a disorder if the behaviours affect your life negatively and significantly. So the avoidant personality may even avoid attending classes or going to work because the fears will be so great. An introvert will attend class, but may not speak out unless directly addressed and even then be uncomfortable.

 

http://reference.allrefer.com/encyclopedia/E/extrover.html

[Matilda]

You may want to also take a look at Asperger's Syndrome.

 

http://www.udel.edu/bkirby/asperger/aswhatisit.html