Which disorder involves pervasive distrust and suspiciousness towards others?

Paranoid personality disorder is characterized by pervasive distrust and suspiciousness of others, leading individuals to interpret their motives as malevolent. This disorder manifests through beliefs that others are out to harm or deceive the individual, which can significantly impact relationships and social interactions. Those with paranoid personality disorder often have an exaggerated sense of self-importance and may be excessively critical of others, causing a cycle of distrust and conflict with those around them.

This distrust is not a fleeting sentiment but a deep-seated pattern that affects many aspects of life, often resulting in social isolation and difficulties in forming interpersonal relationships. The hallmark of this disorder is the tendency to perceive benign actions as threatening, which underscores the pervasive nature of the suspicion experienced by individuals diagnosed with this disorder.

In contrast, the other options represent different personality disorders with distinct features. Borderline personality disorder is primarily characterized by instability in interpersonal relationships, self-image, and emotions. Antisocial personality disorder involves a disregard for right and wrong, often associated with manipulative or harmful behavior towards others. Schizoid personality disorder features a pattern of detachment from social relationships and a limited range of emotional expression. Each of these has its own unique set of symptoms, illustrating why paranoid personality disorder specifically highlights pervasive distrust and suspicion.