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Schizoid Personality Disorder is a mental disorder associated with people characterized with a serious pattern of detachment and indifference, or a very limited range of emotions in social and interpersonal relationships. They are generally loners who prefer solitary activities and rarely express strong emotion.
Cluster ‘A’
Schizoid Personality Disorder is one of the conditions included in “Cluster A”, i.e., odd or eccentric personality disorders. While the names sound alike and they might have some similar symptoms, Schizoid Personality Disorder is not the same thing as the more serious Schizophrenia that is discussed in separate articles.
Most people with Schizoid Personality Disorder are able to function fairly well. They tend to be reclusive and choose jobs that allow them to work alone, such as night security officers, and often prefer to work at home. Many never marry, have few friends and often continue to live with their parents as adults.
Cases Believed High
It is believed that far more people than is known are affected. It is difficult to accurately determine the prevalence of this disorder, because people with Schizoid Personality Disorder rarely seek treatment.
In addition little is known about the cause of schizoid personality disorder. Both genetics and environment are suspected to play a role where a bleak childhood together with an absence of warmth and emotion was experienced. Schizoid Personality Disorder usually begins in late teens to early adulthood. Other conditions may co-exist, such as mood disorders, anxiety disorders, and other personality disorders.
Evaluation Techniques
While there are no specific labs tests to diagnose this disorder, psychiatrists and psychologists use specially designed interview and assessment tools to evaluate a person for a personality disorder.
Treatment usually takes the form of psychotherapy, and generally focuses on improving coping skills, as well as social interaction, communication, and self-esteem
This report is not a diagnosis. We hope this information can guide you toward improving your life. Review our Knowledge Base or the links displayed on this page for similar and related topics.