Schizotypal Personality Disorder
Personality Disorders
A personality disorder is a persistent pattern of emotions, cognitions and behavior that results in enduring emotional distress for the person affected and/or for others and may cause difficulties with work and relationships. DSM-5 divides the personality disorders into three groups or clusters. The cluster division is based on resemblance. Cluster A is called the odd or eccentric clusters; it includes paranoid, schizoid and schizotypal personality disorders. Cluster B is the dramatic, emotional or erratic cluster; it consists of antisocial, borderline, histrionic, and narcissistic personality disorders. Cluster C is the anxious or fearful cluster, it includes avoidant, dependent and obsessive-compulsive personality disorders.
Cluster 'A'
Three personality disorders - paranoid, schizoid and schizotypal - share common features that resemble some of the Psychotic symptoms seen in Schizophrenia.
Schizotypal Personality Disorder
People with Schizotypal Personality Disorder are typically socially isolated. They also behave in ways that would be seen unusual to many of us, and they tend to be suspicious and to have odd beliefs.
SYMPTOMS
- Unusual beliefs, behavior or dress.
- Suspiciousness.
- Telepathy or sixth sense.
- In children and adolescents – bizarre fantasies or preoccupations.
- Odd thinking and Speech e.g. vague, circumstantial, over elaborate or stereotyped.
- Odd, eccentric or peculiar Behavior or appearance.
CAUSES
Psychological
Believing insignificant events are personally relevant. Expressing a little emotion.
Biological
Genetic vulnerability for Schizophrenia but without the biological or environmental stresses present in that disorder.
Social / Cultural
Preference for social isolation; excessive social anxiety and lack of social skill.
TREATMENT
Schizotypal Personality Disorder can be treated by teaching social skills to reduce isolation and suspicion. Medication i.e. haloperidol can be used to reduce ideas of reference, odd communication, and isolation. Success rate in treatment is very low.
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REFERENCE
David H. Barlow, BOSTON UNIVERSITY
V. Mark Durand, UNIVERSITY OF SOUTH FLORIDA- ST. PETERSBERG
2. ABNORMAL PSYCHOLOGY: 9TH EDITION
Davision G.C., Neale, J.M. and Kring, A.M.
3. ABNORMAL PSYCHOLOGY
Allov. L.B.: Riskind, J.H. and Manos, M.J.
4. ABNORMAL PSYCHOLOGY AND MODERN LIFE. NY: Harper and Collins. 2000
Carson. R.C. and Butcher. N.J.