Which disorder is described as detachment from social relationships and a limited expression of emotions, preferring solitary activities?

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

Answer: (A)

The key idea here is a pattern of pervasive social detachment combined with a restricted range of emotional expression. In schizoid personality disorder, individuals consistently prefer solitary activities, show little interest in forming close relationships (even with family), and come across as emotionally cold or aloof. They’re not typically anxious about social interaction or seeking reassurance; they simply don’t seek or value social connections and express only limited emotions in interpersonal settings.

This helps distinguish it from other personality disorders: borderline involves unstable and intense relationships with fear of abandonment; histrionic features dramatic, attention-seeking, and overly emotional behavior; avoidant involves social inhibition and anxiety about criticism, yet a desire for close relationships.