by Cristina Olvera

Created on: May 24, 2010   Last Updated: May 26, 2010

We like to be alone every now and then.  It’s nice to be able to come home and relax and not worry about having to talk to someone or deal with noise and chaos.  This is a normal need, but if someone finds themselves wanting to be alone all time, then something else may be going on inside.  Schizoid Personality Disorder is characterized by an excessive detachment from social relationships.

A personality disorder is a psychological disorder that greatly affects a person’s life.  Other personality disorders include Borderline Personality Disorder, Antisocial Personality Disorder, Paranoid Personality Disorder, Schizotypal Personality Disorder, Histrionic Personality Disorder, Avoidant Personality Disorder, Dependent Personality Disorder and Obsessive Compulsive Personality Disorder.

Schizoid Personality Disorder is in a group of conditions called eccentric personality disorders.  Other disorders that are included in this category are Schizotypal Personality Disorder and Paranoid Personality Disorder.  Schizoid Personality Disorder is not the same as Schizophrenia, but they do share a few symptoms.  Those with Schizoid Personality Disorder tend to function better than someone with Schizophrenia.

Symptoms of Schizoid Personality Disorder  are appearing distant and detached, avoidance of social activities, not wanting and avoiding close relationships, including relationships with family, no interest in sex with others, appearing dull and humorless, being followers and not leaders in group situations and under-performing at school or work. 

Those who suffer from Schizoid Personality Disorder are not depressed, rather they are described as being indifferent.  They don’t show emotion whether it be happy, angry or sad.  This doesn’t really allow for anyone to really understand what’s going on in the inside.  They usually are suffering great emotional pain, but they won’t allow that to show on the outside.

Professions and activities that may be preferred by someone suffering from Schizoid Personality Disorder are Theoretical Physicists, Mathematicians and computer hackers, crackers and programmers.  This isn’t saying that all people who perform these jobs and tasks have this personality disorder. These jobs require a lot of time alone with no one to answer to.  This creates the perfect atmosphere for someone with Schizoid Personality Disorder.   

The prognosis of Schizoid Personality Disorder is usually not a good one.  Most will go undiagnosed and untreated and the effects on their quality of life can be devastating.  If someone with this disorder is faced with too much stress, they may begin to have psychotic episodes.  This could also lead to a depressive illness.  Seeking help and support is the only way to change the prognosis.  It is possible to lead a normal life with this disorder, but treatment and life changes are absolutely necessary.  

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