Avoidant personality disorder is characterized by which of the following?

Avoidant personality disorder is characterized primarily by overwhelming feelings of inadequacy and a heightened sensitivity to negative evaluation or criticism. Individuals with this disorder often see themselves as socially inept, which leads them to avoid social interactions and situations where they might feel exposed to scrutiny. This pervasive sense of inferiority and the fear of rejection or embarrassment significantly impacts their ability to engage in relationships and social activities.

In contrast, other characteristics listed do not align with the traits of avoidant personality disorder. For instance, extreme social dominance is typically associated with more assertive or aggressive personality styles, which is not indicative of avoidant traits. Intense sociability directly contradicts the essence of avoidant personality disorder, as those affected tend to shy away from social engagement rather than seeking it out. Pathological lying falls outside the behavioral patterns associated with avoidant personality disorder, as it relates more to other personality disorders, such as antisocial or narcissistic personality disorders.

Thus, the emphasis on profound feelings of inadequacy captures the core experience of individuals with avoidant personality disorder, making it the correct identification of its characteristics.