Causative & risk factors
As with most mental health conditions, schizoid personality disorder is believed to occur as a result of a combination of genetic and environmental factors. Having a close relative with the same condition increases an individual’s chances of developing it. Victims of child abuse and neglect have a higher risk of developing schizotypal personality disorder.
Clinical presentation
People with schizotypal personality disorder find it very difficult to trust others and form close relationships. They possess odd beliefs and display odd behaviors. They may even dress oddly. They may experience false illusions and perceptions e.g. phantom pain.
They have a peculiar speech pattern and may ramble endlessly. They are usually very suspicious or paranoid. They constantly doubt others. They may get very anxious in situations involving social interactions.
Investigations
Schizoid personality disorder is diagnosed after thorough assessment of the patient’s symptoms, his personal and family history.
The Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM) has laid down certain criteria to diagnose an individual with schizotypal personality disorder. A minimum of 5 criteria should be met to make diagnose an individual with this disorder:
- Incorrect interpretations of events, such as a feeling that something which is actually harmless or inoffensive has a direct personal meaning
- Odd beliefs or magical thinking that’s inconsistent with cultural norms
- Unusual perceptions, including illusions
- Odd thinking and speech patterns
- Suspicious or paranoid thoughts, such as the belief that someone’s out to get you
- Flat emotions, appearing aloof and isolated
- Odd, eccentric or peculiar behavior or appearance
- Lack of close friends or confidants other than relatives
- Excessive social anxiety that doesn’t diminish with familiarity
Treatment
Schizotypal personality disorder is treated with a combination of medication and psychotherapy.
Medications may include antipsychotic, antidepressant or anti-anxiety drugs.
Psychotherapy helps the individual to start trusting others and form healthy relationships. Support from friends and family also play a major role in helping the individual develop trust on others.
