Schizoid personality disorder is a very uncommon clinical diagnosis worldwide. The symptoms of this diagnosis have to do with the way in which a person perceives or thinks of the world around them.

As a result, the person’s symptoms have the ability to affect his or her overall quality of life, occupation, and relationships with their social world. Thus, this condition is considered a medical diagnosis due to its ability to impair a person’s way of life.

Symptoms of Schizoid Personality Disorder

It is a type of personality disorder in which the individual has a consistent pattern of detachment from social relationships. Relational issues are a key part of this diagnosis.

Those diagnosed with schizoid personality disorder tend to lack the desire for close relationships in all aspects and forms. These individuals will exhibit the lack of a desire for being a part of a family, friendships, and/or romantic relationships.

Furthermore, when this person is in a romantic relationship, he or she will have little to no interest in sexual experiences.

What Makes Schizoid Personality Disorder a Disorder

What makes this a disorder different from people who enjoy alone time is the context in which their symptoms appear. People diagnosed with this personality disorder tend to behave the same in various settings and contexts. For example, a person with this diagnosis will behave in the same manner at a family gathering, birthday party, work or attending a class.

As a result of these symptoms, people diagnosed with schizoid personality disorder tend to be considered to be “loners” in society, as being alone is a desired most in these individuals. You will see them by themselves in restaurants, rarely leaving the house. They may feel better staying in to play video games or reading rather than attending social events.

Emotional Expression

People diagnosed with schizoid personality disorder tend to have a restricted range of expression when it comes to emotions and feelings in interpersonal settings.

When interacting with others, he or she may appear to be emotionally flat, lack enthusiasm, and engaged in the conversation. It can be difficult to tell if he or she is happy, sad, or enjoying themselves.

People may describe this person as being distant, cold, and detached when interacting with others. Because of this perception, it can become difficult for others to feel connected to this individual.

Social Reactions and Responses

Another symptom of schizoid personality disorder is appearing to be indifferent to praise and criticism of others. Their reaction to criticism and praise may not be a typical, culturally accepted reaction. This can be challenging for others to understand.

They may also have difficulties expressing anger or distress well, even in serious and provoking situations. In a situation where an average person will yell, this individual may not react at all. In another example, a person diagnosed with this type of personality disorder may not cry during a funeral despite everyone around them expressing their emotions.

Causes of Schizoid Personality Disorder

The causes of the disorder are not known according to researchers. However, many psychologists believe the cause of this disorder can be due to a number of factors. These include a person’s biological, genetic makeup, social circumstances, and psychological components.

For one, it is more common in men than in women. In addition, a person’s natural temperament as a child can be a relevant factor.

Likewise, environmental upbringing can be a component causing the disorder to begin. For example, if a person grows up in an environment that is extremely isolated, spends much time by themselves, very little social interaction, or affectionate care from others, he or she may be at risk for developing symptoms related to schizoid personality disorder. These symptoms will continue into adulthood, where it becomes a full diagnosis.

Possible Early Signs

Although schizoid personality disorder is diagnosed in early adulthood, there are signs that the disorder can begin in childhood and adolescence. Some of these prevalent symptoms include wanting to be alone.

Parents should also monitor the peer relationships of their children. Poor peer relationships or a lack of friendships can be an early sign of this disorder.

A common issue is differentiating between autism spectrum disorder and schizoid personality disorder. This is because some of the symptoms around emotions and social impairment tend to overlap in both diagnoses. Parents should resist trying to diagnose their child with any type of personality disorder until he or she has reached adulthood.

Treating Schizoid Personality Disorder

Those diagnosed with this disorder are not often prescribed medications, unless they have other current diagnoses as well, such as depression or anxiety.

Many people diagnosed with schizoid personality disorder attend psychotherapy sessions as a way to help them lead an improved quality of life. However, they often avoid seeking treatment unless if they find themselves under pressure from others.

It has been found that short-term therapy is the most effective and using solution-focused techniques. Therapists can also help their client to explore ways to form attachments with others, social skills, and coping skills for times when they may feel overwhelmed. These skills can be an important part of expanding a person’s way of going about daily life. Therefore, learning them may improve the way they interact with the world.

On the other hand, people diagnosed with a schizoid personality disorder can also use self-help methods to overcome their concerns and current problems. Finding a self-help group can be beneficial for these individuals as a way to learn how to deal with stressors. It can also help them engage with others who are similar and overcome the feeling of isolation.

References:

  1. American Psychiatric Association. (2013). Diagnostic and statistical manual of mental disorders (5th ed.). Arlington, VA: American Psychiatric Publishing.
  2. Psych Central.
  3. Psychology Today

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This Post Has One Comment

  1. SS

    Now that I am older, wiser and more educated in the various personality traits. This article got me thinking back to my younger days when in school, and university, I had encountered many of my classmates and peers who portrayed these symptoms, yet none of us really understood why they behaved the way they did- So much so that some even judged them by saying they really are dumb or lost their marbles not to associate with us . Some were really brilliant in the courses they took yet the instructors’ teachers had to literally threaten them if they did not comply to their demands to come to the front of the class to read their essays etc.
    Even during breaks, they would seclude themselves, either reading or sitting just staring into space. Wish someone had then found the reasons and given the help. I wish I knew where some are now to see how they were getting along

    I think that its time our medical plans include these mental problems as mandatory check ups. How many can afford the per session charges? This is the main reason we have so many today who really need help but due to financial restraints, they just continue to languish in their own pain, not knowing if there is a real problem and or far that matter those who are close to them can help them to the road to recovery.
    Our governments spend billions, if not trillions on matters that are so not required ( trumped up wars, fighting unnecessary battles that do not concern us as a country. why can’t a substantial amount each year not be devoted to funding the fees to Specialists in these fields for the betterment of society?
    But then, I must be pipe-dreaming for this to happen!

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