· Causes
· Symptoms
Schizotypal personality disorder is a personality disorder characterized by odd behaviors, beliefs, and/or thoughts, and difficulties in social situations. People with personality disorders are not aware that their thoughts and behaviors are inappropriate.
It is not clear what causes personality disorders, but it is likely a combination of genetic (inherited) factors and a person's environment.
Although the cause of personality disorders is not clear, it is believed that the frontal lobe is where personality and impulses arise.
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A risk factor is something that increases your chance of getting a disease or condition.
The following factors are thought to increase the risk of schizotypal personality disorder:
· Gender: male
· Relatives with schizophrenia
Symptoms of schizotypal personality disorder may include:
· Odd or eccentric dress and grooming
· Unusual style of communication
· Illusions
· "Magical" thinking
· Peculiar, outlandish, or paranoid ideas or beliefs
· Difficulty forming relationships
· Social anxiety
· Talking to self
You will likely be referred to a psychiatrist or other mental health professional who will ask you about your symptoms and mental and medical health history. A diagnosis will be made after a complete psychiatric assessment that rules out other disorders such as schizophrenia , depersonalization disorder (a type of dissociative disorder), obsessive-compulsive personality disorder , and other personality disorders.
Talk with your doctor about the best treatment plan for you. Treatment options include:
Counseling
Counseling is often beneficial for people with schizotypal personality disorder. Counseling sessions focus on helping you gain insight into your personality disorder.
Medications
If you have this condition, you may benefit from pimozide (Orap), haloperidol (Haldol), risperidone (Risperdal), or diazepam (Valium).
With the majority of patients, medications provide only a minimal amount of symptom relief.
Other Treatments
Other treatments, such as group therapy and social skills training, can help you to manage symptoms.
There is no known way to prevent schizotypal personality disorder.
Last reviewed April 2008 by Theodor B. Rais, MD
Please be aware that this information is provided to supplement the care provided by your physician. It is neither intended nor implied to be a substitute for professional medical advice. CALL YOUR HEALTHCARE PROVIDER IMMEDIATELY IF YOU THINK YOU MAY HAVE A MEDICAL EMERGENCY. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider prior to starting any new treatment or with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition.
