A person who is detached from social relationships and shows a restricted range of emotional expression best fits which disorder?

• A. Schizoid personality disorder
• B. Borderline personality disorder
• C. Histrionic personality disorder
• D. Avoidant personality disorder

Answer: (A)

The main idea is a pattern of pervasive social detachment with a notably flattened or restricted range of emotional expression. This combination characterizes schizoid personality disorder. People with this pattern often prefer solitary activities, show little interest in close relationships, and seem emotionally cold or indifferent to both praise and criticism. They typically experience limited affect and may appear distant or aloof in interpersonal settings, choosing solitude over social interaction. This differentiates them from those with other personality disorders: borderline involves unstable relationships and fear of abandonment; histrionic features dramatic, attention-seeking emotion; and avoidant involves social inhibition due to fear of rejection, though a desire for relationships can still be present. The defining feature here is the consistent detachment from others and restricted emotional expression across contexts.