Which is a typical clinical feature of Schizoid Personality Disorder?

• A. Apathetic and aloof demeanor with restricted affect
• B. Grandiose self-importance
• C. Severe social impairment with active psychosis
• D. Frequent mood swings

Answer: (A)

The key idea is a pattern of social detachment with very limited emotional expression. Schizoid personality disorder is characterized by an apathetic, aloof demeanor and a restricted affect, meaning the person shows little emotion and avoids close relationships, often preferring solitary activities. This combination—avoiding social contact and showing flat or constricted affect—is the typical feature clinicians look for. In contrast, grandiose self-importance signals narcissistic traits, severe social impairment with active psychosis points to schizophrenia with psychotic features, and frequent mood swings suggests a mood disorder, none of which capture the enduring, detachment-with-restricted-affect pattern seen in schizoid personality disorder.