Dear Ben:

Does the following (quote from an online source) fits your mother?

“individuals who have a pervasive, persistent, and enduring mistrust of others, and a profoundly cynical view of others and the world…  hypervigilant to physical, verbal or social attacks, and do not trust others, and therefore tend to have few if any close or intimate associates. They tend to be aloof, cold, distant, argumentative, and frequently complain. They may appear guarded and secretive, very rational, logical, and unemotional, but at times will be sarcastic, hostile, and rigid. Generally they have a difficult time getting along with others..  tend to do poorly with group activities and collaborative projects. They will be highly critical of others, but will respond to criticism of themselves with hostility or defensiveness…

“will believe others are using, lying to, or harming them, without apparent evidence thereof… have doubts about the loyalty and trustworthiness of others… will not confide in others due to the belief that their confidence will be betrayed… will interpret ambiguous or benign remarks as hurtful or threatening, and Hold grudges.. In the absence of objective evidence, believe their reputation or character are being assailed by others, and will retaliate in some manner and.. Will be jealous and suspicious without cause that intimate partners are being unfaithful.”

Coming to think of it, how much of the above fits you (and what doesn’t fit)?

anita