Schizoid personality disorder is a type of personality disorder characterized by intense introversion and social isolation. Symptoms of the disorder, which typically begin in early adulthood, include an inability to enjoy interpersonal relationships, emotional coldness and limited emotional expression. Schizoid personality disorder is treated by methods applied by specialized psychiatrists or psychologists.
People with schizoid personality disorder also have limited ability to feel, distinguish and show emotions. Due to their shy nature, they do not like to participate in social spaces and enjoy being alone. People with schizoid personality disorder do not want to have close relationships, including with family members. Their relationships gradually diminish as they do not like to enter social environments. This type of disorder, which can occur more frequently in early adulthood and late childhood, may be more common in men with a genetic predisposition.
What are the Symptoms of Schizoid Personality Disorder?
Individuals with schizoid personality disorder may face problems in various parts of education, work and social life. These people who like to be alone and do not like to communicate with people may also experience various symptoms. In addition to these, the symptoms of schizoid personality disorder can be listed as follows:
- They do not want or enjoy close relationships even with family members.
- They do not react to criticism or praise from others.
- They have difficulty expressing their emotions and reacting to a situation.
- They prefer solitary hobbies, activities and jobs.
- They have little or no desire for sexual relations.
- They have no close friends other than first-degree relatives.
- They have difficulty relating to others, are highly imaginative and live in a fantasy world.
- Many of them do not marry or live with their parents.
What Causes Schizoid Personality Disorder?
The causes of schizoid personality disorder are not known exactly, but there are various theories about its occurrence. One of these theories stems from the belief that a child who is exposed to excessive attention or indifference from the mother during childhood cannot be loved as he/she is. In addition, emotional neglect by parents during childhood is also thought to be effective in the development of Schizoid personality disorder.
In addition to these, the risk factors thought to have an effect on the emergence of personality disorder can be listed as follows:
Genetic Factors: Some research suggests that there may be a genetic link between schizophrenia and schizoid personality disorder. In addition, some features of autism spectrum disorder are similar to schizoid personality disorder, so researchers think there may be a genetic link between the two.
Environmental Factors: Having emotionally cold, neglectful and distant parents during childhood can lead to the development of schizoid personality disorder.
Complications of Schizoid Personality Disorder
Common complications in people with this type of personality disorder include difficulty in social interaction and restricting their social relationships. This can cause problems with friendships, emotional relationships and family relationships. Some of the other complications of schizoid personality disorder include:
- Major depression,
- Anxiety disorders,
- Mood disorders,
- Schizotypal personality disorder or schizophrenia,
- Other personality disorders,
How is schizoid personality disorder diagnosed?
Schizoid personality disorder can be diagnosed by a psychiatrist or psychologist following a psychiatric evaluation. The diagnosis is based on whether the symptoms are persistent and how much they affect the person's functioning. Psychiatrists and psychologists use specially designed interview and assessment tools to evaluate a person for a personality disorder.
These tools include a physical examination, a thorough listening to symptoms, and a review of medical and personal history. Once a diagnosis is made, treatment and support is planned.
How is schizoid personality disorder treated?
Individuals with schizoid personality disorder are often not bothered by their condition and do not seek treatment. Treatment usually begins at the request of family relatives. In the treatment of schizoid personality disorder, a personalized plan is created. Some of the treatment approaches included in this treatment plan are as follows:
Psychotherapy
Psychotherapy is also known as talk therapy. This method tries to help people explore their emotional expressions, improve their social skills and understand themselves better.
Group Therapy
Group therapy is a type of psychotherapy where people come together under the supervision of a therapist or psychologist to express and resolve their problems together. This method can help someone with a personality disorder to develop social skills.
Cognitive Behavioral Therapy
This is a structured, goal-oriented type of therapy. A therapist or psychologist helps the person take a closer look at their thoughts and feelings to understand how their thoughts influence their actions. For someone with schizoid personality disorder, a therapist may explore distorted expectations and perceptions about the importance and usefulness of relationships with others.
Medication Treatment
There is no medication that can cure this type of personality disorder. However, in some cases, specialists may prescribe medication for people with co-occurring psychological problems such as depression and anxiety.