Schizotypal personality disorder (SPD) is a mental condition in which a person has trouble with relationships and disturbances in thought patterns, appearance, and behavior.
Causes
The exact cause of SPD is unknown. Many factors may be involved:
- Genetic -- SPD seems to be more common among relatives of people with SPD . Studies have found that some gene defects are found more often in people with SPD.
- Psychological -- A person's personality, ability to deal with stress, and handle relationships with others may contribute to SPD.
- Environmental -- Emotional trauma as a child and chronic stress may also play roles in developing SPD.
Exams and Tests
SPD is diagnosed based on a psychological evaluation. The health care provider will consider how long and how severe the person's symptoms have been.
Treatment
Talk therapy is an important part of treatment. Social skills training can help some people cope with social situations. Medicines may also be a helpful addition if mood or anxiety disorders are also present.
Outlook (Prognosis)
SPD is usually a long-term (chronic) illness. Outcome of treatment varies based on the severity of the disorder.
Possible Complications
Complications may include:
- Poor social skills
- Lack of interpersonal relationships
When to Contact a Medical Professional
See your provider or a mental health professional if you or someone you know has symptoms of SPD.
Prevention
There is no known prevention. Awareness of risk, such as a family history of schizophrenia, may allow early diagnosis.
Alternative Names
Personality disorder - schizotypal
References
American Psychiatric Association. Personality disorders. Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, Fifth Edition, Text Revision (DSM-5-TR). Washington, DC: American Psychiatric Association Publishing; 2022.
Blais MA, Smallwood P, Groves JE, Rivas-Vazquez RA, Hopwood CJ. Personality and personality disorders. In: Stern TA, Fava M, Wilens TE, Rosenbaum JF, eds. Massachusetts General Hospital Comprehensive Clinical Psychiatry. 2nd ed. Philadelphia, PA: Elsevier; 2016:chap 39.
Rosell DR, Futterman SE, McMaster A, Siever LJ. Schizotypal personality disorder: a current review. Curr Psychiatry Rep. 2014;16(7):452. PMID: 24828284 pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/24828284/.
Review Date 11/6/2022
Updated by: Fred K. Berger, MD, addiction and forensic psychiatrist, Scripps Memorial Hospital, La Jolla, CA. Also reviewed by David C. Dugdale, MD, Medical Director, Brenda Conaway, Editorial Director, and the A.D.A.M. Editorial team.