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Abstract
Abstract
Objective: This article aims to analyze the influence of Personality Disorders (PDs), as defined by the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders – 5th Edition (DSM-5), within the university environment, with a particular focus on Dentistry programs. It explores their impacts on academic training, interpersonal climate, and future professional practice, with an emphasis on psychopathic and narcissistic traits.
Methods: A narrative literature review was conducted, encompassing research in the areas of educational psychology, university mental health, health ethics, and interpersonal behavior in high-demand environments. The focus was on studies exploring the manifestation of PDs in students and faculty, their consequences for the teaching-learning process, the academic climate, individual and group performance, and preparation for clinical practice. Publications from the last five years until April 2023 were prioritized, complemented by classic and foundational works.
Results: The literature suggests that the presence of individuals with PDs in the academic environment, especially in demanding courses like Dentistry, can generate significant dysfunctions. Psychopathic and narcissistic traits in students and faculty are associated with toxic interpersonal dynamics, impaired group collaboration, elevated academic stress, compromised ethical integrity, and ultimately, a negative impact on the quality of training and preparation for clinical practice. Manifestations include manipulation, exploitation, pursuit of admiration, lack of empathy, and disruptive behaviors. A synthesis of the main impacts is presented in table format.
Conclusion: The recognition and understanding of Personality Disorders in the university context are crucial for promoting a healthy learning environment and ensuring ethical and competent professional training. Awareness, the implementation of psycho-pedagogical support policies, and the development of conflict management strategies can mitigate the adverse effects of PDs, contributing to academic excellence and the qualification of future professionals.
Keywords: Personality Disorders; Dentistry; University Environment; Academic Psychopathy; Narcissism; Health Ethics; Student Mental Health.
References
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Copyright (c) 2025 Cristiany Morais de Queiroz, Silvia Marise Araújo Lopes , Sony Cléa de Souza Santos, Thiago Luiz de Almeida Silva, Vladilandia André de Oliveira Nobre de Araújo, Homero Luiz Sales Neves, Evandro Duarte de Sá, Luciano Barreto Silva, Pedro Guimarães Sampaio, Rita de Cássia Brandão
