The Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, Fifth Edition (DSM-5) list ten standalone personality disorders and based on similar characteristics, each personality disorder is grouped into one of three categories (cluster A, cluster B, and cluster C). The Oxford English Dictionary defines a personality disorder as “a deeply ingrained pattern of behavior of a specified kind that deviates markedly from the norms of generally accepted behavior, typically apparent by the time of adolescence, and causing long-term difficulties in personal relationships or in functioning in society.” Schizotypal personality disorder (STPD) is characterized by a pattern of intense discomfort with close relationships, social anxiety, and distrust of others. STPD falls under cluster A, which are defined as are personality disorders largely characterized by eccentric, odd thinking and/ or behavior. While the exact cause of schizotypal personality disorder remains unknown, research indicates that it is likely due to a combination of psychological, biological, genetic, and environmental factors.
Signs and Symptoms
A person with STPD typically lacks awareness about how their thoughts and behaviors impact others. This can manifest in a variety of ways. According to Cleveland Clinic, a person with schizotypal personality disorder may:
- Have intense social anxiety and less than mediocre social relationships.
- Lack close friends or confidants, except for first-degree relatives.
- Exhibit peculiar behaviors and mannerisms.
- Have odd thoughts and speech (e.g., using excessively abstract or concrete phrases, using phrases or words in unusual ways, etc.).
- Have unusual perceptive experiences and magical beliefs.
- Incorrectly interpret ordinary situations or happenings as having special meaning.
- Be paranoid and suspicious of others’ intentions.
- Have difficulty with responding appropriately to social cues (e.g., maintaining eye contact, body language, etc.).
- Lack motivation and underachieve in occupational (e.g., educational, work, etc.) settings.
People with schizotypal personality disorder experience severe distress in social situations. This causes them have difficulty forming and maintaining close relationships, which can be partially attributed to their distorted interpretation of social interactions, and odd social behaviors.
Treatment Options
The treatment process for individuals diagnosed with STPD involves helping an individual learn to live with his or her diagnosis and effectively manage its symptoms. Although there is no universal treatment plan for individuals diagnosed with STPD, as the nuanced needs of each person will vary, there is an array of treatment options available. Treatment plans for schizotypal personality disorder may include a combination of psychotherapeutic interventions such as cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), dialectical behavior therapy (DBT), expressive arts therapies, group therapy, family therapy and more. There is currently no medication approved by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) to treat schizotypal personality disorder, but depending on the needs of the individual, medication such as antipsychotics or antidepressants may be added into one’s treatment plan. Schizotypal personality disorder is considered a chronic condition that requires lifelong treatment.
Treatment In Calabasas
Calabasas is a city in California. It is a well-known suburb of Los Angeles, located west of the San Fernando Valley and north of the Santa Monica Mountains. Over the past decade, the city of Calabasas has grown in its reputation for luxury as well as for privacy which makes it a hidden gem for residential living for society’s elite, and one of the most desirable destinations in Los Angeles County. It is also home to a plethora of highly qualified mental health clinicians providing an array of therapeutic services and treatment options.
The information above is provided for the use of informational purposes only. The above content is not to be substituted for professional advice, diagnosis, or treatment, as in no way is it intended as an attempt to practice medicine, give specific medical advice, including, without limitation, advice concerning the topic of mental health. As such, please do not use any material provided above to disregard professional advice or delay seeking treatment.
