A Guide to Mental Illness - Schizoid Personality Disorder

DESCRIPTION

Schizoid personality disorder is characterized by the sufferer's need for social isolation and solitary lifestyle.^[1] In contrast to schizotypal personality disorder, the sufferers social isolation is not a result of disability in social situations, but simply a lack of interest in a social life. This is a rare disorder, with less than 1% of the population believed to suffer from it.

CAUSES

The cause of this disorder is unknown, though some studies suggest genetics and family situations may affect the risk factor.^[3] Lack of social stimulation as a child often increases the risk of this disorder.^[4]

SYMPTOMS

A person who is schizoid will avoid close relationships^[4] and may appear cold and unemotional to others.^[3] They prefer solitude and avoid sex^[4], not because they do not enjoy the experience, but because they resent the emotional closeness they would have to develop with their partner^[4]. They often prefer masturbation or abstinence to the emotionally involved sexual experience.^[1] A schizoid person may lack the pleasure and fun most people get from leisure activities due to their reduced emotional spectrum.^[4] Their lack of interest in others means they are often indifferent to praise or criticism from others.^[4]

PREVALENCE AND SUSCEPTIBILITY

It is not known what the actual cause of this disorder is, but those who were not socially stimulated as children by their parents^[1] or have a family history of schizophrenia^[3] may be more at risk. Males are diagnosed with this disorder slightly more than females.

TREATMENT

Medication is not used as a treatment of this disorder and psychotherapy is usually the sole treatment.^[3]Therapy often involves a build up of trust between patient and therapist. Self help groups are also part of treatment. Group therapy is a way of easing the patient into a social setting and introducing them to others with personality disorders that are similar.^[3]

SOURCES