The term 'schizoid' designates a tendency to direct attention toward one's inner life and away from the external world. Which disorder corresponds?

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

Answer: (A)

This item centers on a personality style defined by detachment from social relationships and a restricted range of emotional expression, with a strong preference for inner life over the external world. When someone tends to direct attention inward and away from others, it reflects a pattern of solitary living, little interest in close relations, and emotional reserve. That constellation is the hallmark of schizoid personality disorder.

The other disorders involve different dynamics: paranoia centers on distrust and suspicion of others; borderline involves unstable relationships and intense emotions or fear of abandonment; histrionic involves dramatic, attention-seeking emotionality. The described inclination toward internal focus and social withdrawal fits schizoid personality disorder best.