What defines schizoid personality disorder?

What defines schizoid personality disorder?

• A. A pervasive pattern of detachment from social relationships
• B. A tendency to engage in dramatic and emotional behavior
• C. Significant impulsivity and instability of self-image
• D. Intense fear of rejection or abandonment

Answer: (A)

Schizoid personality disorder is characterized by a pervasive pattern of detachment from social relationships and a limited range of emotional expression in interpersonal settings. Individuals with this disorder often appear aloof or indifferent to social relationships and may have a preference for solitude. They typically do not seek out close relationships, including familial bonds, often choosing to engage in solitary activities. This fundamental aspect of their personality makes option A the defining characteristic of schizoid personality disorder. The other choices highlight symptoms associated with different personality disorders. Dramatic and emotional behaviors are more indicative of borderline or histrionic personality disorders. The mention of impulsivity and instability of self-image pertains to borderline personality disorder as well. Intense fear of rejection or abandonment often relates to avoidant personality disorder or again borderline personality disorder. Thus, while these traits are important in their contexts, they do not specifically define schizoid personality disorder.

Schizoid personality disorder is characterized by a pervasive pattern of detachment from social relationships and a limited range of emotional expression in interpersonal settings. Individuals with this disorder often appear aloof or indifferent to social relationships and may have a preference for solitude. They typically do not seek out close relationships, including familial bonds, often choosing to engage in solitary activities. This fundamental aspect of their personality makes option A the defining characteristic of schizoid personality disorder.

The other choices highlight symptoms associated with different personality disorders. Dramatic and emotional behaviors are more indicative of borderline or histrionic personality disorders. The mention of impulsivity and instability of self-image pertains to borderline personality disorder as well. Intense fear of rejection or abandonment often relates to avoidant personality disorder or again borderline personality disorder. Thus, while these traits are important in their contexts, they do not specifically define schizoid personality disorder.