Wednesday, June 15, 2011

Top ten myths about introverts

Myth #1 – Introverts don’t like to talk.
This is not true. Introverts just don’t talk unless they have something to say. They hate small talk. Get an introvert talking about something they are interested in, and they won’t shut up for days.
Myth #2 – Introverts are shy.
Shyness has nothing to do with being an Introvert. Introverts are not necessarily afraid of people. What they need is a reason to interact. They don’t interact for the sake of interacting. If you want to talk to an Introvert, just start talking. Don’t worry about being polite.
Myth #3 – Introverts are rude.
Introverts often don’t see a reason for beating around the bush with social pleasantries. They want everyone to just be real and honest. Unfortunately, this is not acceptable in most settings, so Introverts can feel a lot of pressure to fit in, which they find exhausting.
Myth #4 – Introverts don’t like people.
On the contrary, Introverts intensely value the few friends they have. They can count their close friends on one hand. If you are lucky enough for an introvert to consider you a friend, you probably have a loyal ally for life. Once you have earned their respect as being a person of substance, you’re in.
Myth #5 – Introverts don’t like to go out in public.
Nonsense. Introverts just don’t like to go out in public FOR AS LONG. They also like to avoid the complications that are involved in public activities. They take in data and experiences very quickly, and as a result, don’t need to be there for long to “get it.” They’re ready to go home, recharge, and process it all. In fact, recharging is absolutely crucial for Introverts.
Myth #6 – Introverts always want to be alone.
Introverts are perfectly comfortable with their own thoughts. They think a lot. They daydream. They like to have problems to work on, puzzles to solve. But they can also get incredibly lonely if they don’t have anyone to share their discoveries with. They crave an authentic and sincere connection with ONE PERSON at a time.
Myth #7 – Introverts are weird.
Introverts are often individualists. They don’t follow the crowd. They’d prefer to be valued for their novel ways of living. They think for themselves and because of that, they often challenge the norm. They don’t make most decisions based on what is popular or trendy.
Myth #8 – Introverts are aloof nerds.
Introverts are people who primarily look inward, paying close attention to their thoughts and emotions. It’s not that they are incapable of paying attention to what is going on around them, it’s just that their inner world is much more stimulating and rewarding to them.
Myth #9 – Introverts don’t know how to relax and have fun.
Introverts typically relax at home or in nature, not in busy public places. Introverts are not thrill seekers and adrenaline junkies. If there is too much talking and noise going on, they shut down. Their brains are too sensitive to the neurotransmitter called Dopamine. Introverts and Extroverts have different dominant neuro-pathways. Just look it up.
Myth #10 – Introverts can fix themselves and become Extroverts.
Introverts cannot “fix themselves” and deserve respect for their natural temperament and contributions to the human race. In fact, one study (Silverman, 1986) showed that the percentage of Introverts increases with IQ.

http://jerrybrito.org/post/6114304704/top-ten-myths-about-introverts

Saturday, June 11, 2011

Famous Aspergers'

Science
Albert Einstein provided the theory of relativity and was awarded the Nobel Prize in Physics for the work he did with photoelectric effect.  Characteristics, which may indicate that Einstein was a fellow Aspie:  Einstein could not speak fluently at the age of nine (Botham, 2006, p. 16), language delays are common in children with high functioning autism.  His parents suspected that he might actually be mentally retarded (Botham, 2006, p. 16).
Often, children with Autism are labeled Mentally Retarded or Behaviorally Disordered.  At the ceremony of induction as an American, Einstein attended without socks (Botham, 2006, p. 16).  Children and adults with autism and Asperger's Syndrome often have peculiar habits, extreme sensitivity to textures (Attwood, 2006, p. 3), and are often rated "high" on scales measuring atypicality, demonstrating odd behaviors, and seemingly lost in their own little world (Fattig, 2007).    Frequently, children with Asperger's struggle with finding socks that "feel right" or with a line at the toe that doesn't not bother them.
Isaac Newton dropped out of school as a teenager (Botham, 2006, p. 15).  A person with Asperger's may not be able to accept rules in school if they appear illogical, pursuing a point or argument "as a matter of principle," which can lead "to a significant conflict with teachers and school authorities," (Attwood, 2006, p. 11).
Benjamin Franklin was considered to be one of the most important of the founding fathers of our country.  He was a theorist, author, politician, scientist, activist, and diplomat.  His scientific contributions included physics, discovery of electricity, and theories regarding electricity (Wikipedia, 2007).  He was also the first head of the post office.  Indicating the potential need for rigid rule and order, with sorting tendencies.  "Benjamin Franklin's peers did not give him the assignment of writing the Declaration of Independence because they feared that he would conceal a joke in it," (Botham, 2006, pp. 17-18).  Aspies are notorious for an extreme or different sense of humor.
 
Politics
Napoleon Bonaparte was reportedly afraid of cats, favored mathematicians or physical scientists, and tended to exclude humanists from his inner circle.  He believed humanists were troublemakers.  He also required his servants to wear his boots, breaking them in for him, before he would wear them (Botham, 2006, p. 17).  Napoleon may have exhibited a social deficit, leaning towards others with similar intellectual and personality traits.  He may have been preoccupied with perseverative or unfounded fears, with a hypersensitivity to textures on his feet or person. 
George Washington, the first president of the United States of America.  Aspie signs:  George grew marijuana in his own garden (Botham, 2006, p. 2).  Many adults with undiagnosed or misdiagnosed Asperger's Syndrome or Attention Deficit Disorder, self medicate in order to "soothe their restless brains and bodies," (Richardson, 1998, p. 1).  He was extremely terrified of being buried alive, therefore, he dictated that he be "laid out for three days just to be sure he was dead," (Botham, 2006, p. 2).  Perseverative fears and bizarre adherence to seemingly ineffectual rules or rituals are common in people with Asperger's Syndrome and autism.  People on the Aspie team, perceive or think about the world differently than others (Attwood, 2006, p. 2).  George reportedly had to borrow money, in order to attend his own inauguration ceremonies (Botham, 2006, p. 2).  Difficulties with money management, pack rack tendencies, and/or impulsively giving possessions away are common traits in the Aspie race (Fattig, 2007). 
John Quincy Adams, also a president of the country, owned and kept a pet alligator in the East Room of the White House (Botham, 2006, p. 3).  Again, atypicality is a common thread for our people (Fattig, 2007).  He reportedly took his "last skinny dip in the Potomac on his seventy-ninth birthday," (Botham, 2006, p. 3).  No further comment needed.
Andrew Jackson maintained the belief that the world was flat (Botham, 2006, p. 3), indicating rigid concrete thinking, without the ability to see anothers perspective (Attwood, 2006, p. 2).  May be he, too, was on our team?
Andrew Johnson taught himself tailoring, and made his own clothes and clothes for those in his cabinet (Botham, 2006, p. 3).  Tailoring may have been a means of self-medicating the "gut wrenching feelings that accompany ADHD," (Richardson, 1998) and Asperger's Syndrome.  Often, people with Asperger's, like people with true ADHD, feel nervous or fidgety inside and cope through leg bouncing, gum chewing, crafting, knitting, steepling their fingers, knuckle popping and other behaviors (Garnett & Attwood, 1995).
Abraham Lincoln had a nervous breakdown, and before his election to the presidency in 1860, he lost eight other elections (Botham, 2006, p. 4).  Asperger's is often first misdiagnosed as depression, anxiety, bipolar, or a breakdown and running repeatedly for office may be indicative of perseveration, ritualistic need for routine even when it doesn't appear to be working, and rigidity (Fattig, 2007).   Also, Lincoln's mother reportedly died after drinking milk from the family cow, after it ate poisonous mushrooms (Botham, 2006, p. 4).  Not a sign or characteristic of Asperger's, but weird nonetheless.
James Garfield was able to write in Latin with one hand, and in Greek with the other hand... at the same time (Botham, 2006, p. 4).  Evidence of savant skills?
After being shot, Teddy Roosevelt refused to accept medical assistance, until after completing a speech he was delivering (Botham, 2006, p. 4).  Rigidity of rule and routine,  with a touch of obsessive-compulsive behaviors?  He also wrote 37 books (Botham, 2006, p. 4).  Repetitive, stereotypical behaviors with perseverative tendencies perhaps?
William Taft got stuck in his bathtub on the day of his Inauguration, and "had to be pried out by his attendants," (Botham, 2006, p. 5).  Eating disorders are often a part of Asperger's Syndrome and autism.  Hyper reactivity to gustatory, olfactory, or textural can lead to under eating, refusal to eat all but just one or two foods, or malnourishment.  Hypo reactivity to gustatory or vestibular, can lead to bored eating, compensatory eating, comfort eating, and obesity.  "Unfortunately, professionals as well as concerned family members and friends mistakenly blame parents of children with autism spectrum disorders for their child's poor eating habits. Sometimes parents' concerns are ignored and they are told not to worry since most children go through stages of picky eating and food fads," (Wheeler, 2004, p. 1).
Harry Truman's middle name remained just an S, because "his parents could not decide between two different names beginning with S," (Botham, 2006, p. 6).  Although not technically associating characteristics to Harry himself, parents of children with Asperger's frequently exhibit characteristics as well.  The core characteristics of Asperger's Syndrome include limited or restricted social awareness and understanding; difficulty or inability to maintain reciprocity or give and take conversationally; and intense or restricted interest in a subject (Attwood, 2006, p. 2).
 
Royalty with Asperger's Characteristics
Louis IV, who was the kind of France, reportedly had a stomach that was twice the size of a normal stomach, and he only bathed one time a year (Botham, 2006, p. 10).  Hygiene issues and failure to acknowledge or dress in trendy fashions can be notoriously difficult for people with Asperger's, especially those with extremely high IQ's and a hyper reactive olfactory response.  Soaps and perfumes can be overwhelming to their olfactory system.
"Catherine the Great relaxed by being tickled," (Botham, 2006, p. 10) which could be a result of the characteristic sensation seeking of light to moderate touch, of those Apies with Hypo reactivity to touch or proprioceptive feedback.
Reportedly, Cleopatra and other female Egyptian rulers wore a fake beard (Botham, 2006, p. 11).  In our brains, neurons are the transmitters for perception, thoughts, feelings, and emotions.  Research has demonstrated "massive neurological effects" hormones can have on females during the different stages of life and maturation (Brizendine, 2006, p. 3).
Females are considered to be superior in empathy skills and males are traditionally found to be superior systematizes.  If a woman with autism is better at systematizing, with extreme attention to detail, and less compelled to demonstrate typically "female characteristics' in relationships (e.g., valuing altruistic, reciprocal relationships, cooperative engagement, strong friendship bonds, nurturing, and smoothing or resisting conflict); but rather favors task specific activities, aggression, solitary activities, or other "male characteristic" behaviors, (Baron-Cohen, 2002, p. 2), she may become ostracized, envied, or socially isolated.  This emotional "maleness" may lead to relational conflicts and a lack of intimate relationships, gender confusion, wanting to dress like the opposite sex, or become the opposite sex. 
Peter the Great reportedly killed his wife's lover, and then "forced her to keep her lover's head in a jar of alcohol in her bedroom," (Botham, 2006, p. 11).  Excessive and unpredictable moods, irrational outbursts, or tantrums are not uncommon in people on the spectrum. 
Wilhem II reportedly had a withered arm, that he often hid by posing with it resting on a sword or holding a glove (Botham, 2006, p. 11).  People with Asperger's become masters of masking our differences. 
Alexander the Great experienced seizure disorder (Botham, 2006, p. 11).  Seizure disorder is present in a percentage of people with autism.
 
Artists
Leonardo da Vinci took twelve years to paint the Mona Lisa' lips, and could write with one hand while drawing with the other (Botham, 2006, p. 13).  Perfectionist tendencies, with moderate cross over discrimination deficits, and savant skills?
Vincent van Gogh committed suicide (Botham, 2006, p. 14).  Depression sometimes accompanies people with Asperger's and in extreme cases can lead to thoughts, talk of, or suicide attempts (Attwood, 2006, p. 15).
Composers/Musicians
Beethoven was such a poor music student, that his music teachers decided he was hopeless as a composer and each time he sat to write music, he reportedly "poured ice water over his head," (Botham, 2006, p. 30), indicating the potential inability to "show" what he could do and a potential preoccupation of sensory experiences (Attwood, 2006, p. 4), or need for unproductive idiosyncratic routine.
Elvis was a notorious over eater, failed his music class in school, never ever gave an encore, and had ten distinctly different drugs in his body when he died (Botham, 2006, p. 34).  He may have been compulsive with food/sensory perseverations, school failures, rigid need for routine and control, and self-medicating?
 
Philosophy
Jeremy Bentham left his estate to a London Hospital, so long as they allowed his body to continue to preside over board meetings.  "His skeleton was clothed and fitted with a wax mask of his face.  It was present at the meeting for ninety-two years and can still be viewed there," (Botham, 2006, p. 15).  People with Asperger's can maintain vivid or complex imaginary worlds, often with imaginary friends (Attwood, 2006, p. 15). 
Socrates committed suicide (Botham, 2006, p. 16), indicating potential depression stemming from difficulties with understanding social conventions, a development of "compensatory thoughts and attitudes for feeling alienated, socially isolated and not understood," (Attwood, 2006, p. 14).  The suicide rate in people with Asperger's is higher than that of the neurotypical population.
 
Inventors
Henry Ford reportedly believed history to be bunk, and he firmly believed in reincarnation (Botham, 2006, p. 18).  Concrete thinker without the ability to understand or tolerate another perspective, rigid belief system? 
Bill Gates has long been suspected of demonstrated Aspie traits, and where would we be without his contributions?  His first business, Traff-O-Data, involved the creation of a machine recording the number of cars passing a point on a road (Botham, 2006, p. 18).
 
Actors
Robin Williams was voted least likely to succeed in high school (Botham, 2006, p. 27).  People with Asperger's are noted to have "an unusual prosody" affecting tone, rhythm, pitch, and speed of speech.  And egocentric preoccupation dominates their thoughts, and they often need more assistance in self-help skills and organization (Attwood, 2006, p. 3).  Kindergarten through 12th grade is particularly difficult for our team, and we often can not "show" who we are or what we can do, until post high school education.
Tom Hanks is reportedly related to Abraham Lincoln (Botham, 2006, p. 22), and genetic ties are strong in our people (see above regarding Abe Lincoln). 
Marilyn Monroe had a history of emotional instability, depression, and suicide.
Clark Gable used to take more than four showers a day (Botham, 2006, p. 26), indicating potential obsessive-compulsive characteristics, frequent in the Aspie population. 
"Every episode of Seinfeld contains a Superman reference somewhere," (Botham, 2006, p. 40).  I will say no more.
 
Writers
Author, Virginia Woolf, would only write her books when standing (Botham, 2006, p. 59), and she suffered from depression, social isolation, and eccentricities.
Shakespeare reportedly spelled his own name in several different ways (Botham, 2006, p. 60).  Hans Christian Anderson was word blind and he never learned to spell correctly (Botham, 2006, p. 61). Written language difficulties often accompany Asperger's Syndrome and ADD/ADHD.
Goethe reportedly hated the sound of barking dogs (Botham, 2006, p. 60), which could indicate hyperactivity to sound or noises; and he "could only write if he had an apple rotting in the desk drawer," (Botham, 2006, p. 60). 
Isaac Asimov has a book included in each Dewey decimal category (Botham, 2006, p. 61), which could indicate compulsivity or perseverative need for control or ritual.
The novel, Gatsby, written by Ernest Vincent Wright, has a word count of fifty thousand with no word containing the letter e (Botham, 2006, p. 60). Phobic?
Charles Dickinson dropped out of school and suffered from insomnia.  He believed that if his bed was facing north, and he was in the center, he might be able to sleep (Botham, 2006, p. 61).  Difficulty falling asleep, staying asleep, nightmares or night terrors, is common in people with Asperger's.   Creating odd rituals and routines as a coping mechanism is also frequent in our people.

 http://www.disabled-world.com/artman/publish/article_2086.shtml

WHEN YOUR PARTNER IS SCHIZOID

(Written from a woman’s perspective)
It’s an axiom of life that you cannot change another person. Most people in ordinary relationships enter them
 believing that they will mould their partners  to better fit their perception of the perfect partner. Unfortunately, they are doomed to failure.
 But no-one more so than the person who believes he/she can change someone with a schizoid style, or full-blown SPD.

You may find yourself drawn to a schizoid because they are often: sensitive, self-sufficient, independent, intellectual,
 profound thinkers, non-prejudiced, and have a natural affinity for animals and children.

However, they are also often: aloof, detached, distant, emotionally cold, withdrawn, anti-social, unaffectionate, isolated,
 unambitious, insensitive to the needs and feelings of others, and incapable of intimacy.

If you are mature and independent enough to tolerate these traits, then your relationship may work. However,
 your relationship with a schizoid should never be central to your existence, because they are usually incapable of fulfilling your needs for affection,
 closeness, intimacy, and socializing. In addition, they constantly feel pulled between two opposing poles – one
 in which they strongly desire a relationship,
 and another in which they definitely do NOT desire a relationship. This may lead to a pattern of breaking-up and making-up, which may leave
 you feeling bewildered and hurt. Schizoids also require lots of space and solitude. So don’t expect your schizoid partner
 to want to be with you every day – it’s more likely to be once a week, or less.

The only way you can make this relationship work is by maintaining space between you, and never making demands
 of any kind – especially not emotional ones.
 This may sound very one-sided, and perhaps it is. But if you love this man for what he TRULY is
 (and not for how you or therapy is going to change him),
 and you are independent with a strong sense of self-worth, then this relationship stands a chance. Ultimately, you have to want this relationship
 for the pleasure of the limited time you spend in his company, and not for what you can get out of it.

If you do not have a fulfilling life of your own, and are emotionally needy – or needy in any other way,
 I suggest you get out while your heart is still intact.

In reality, a relationship with a schizoid should be no different from any other relationship. It’s just that religion, society, music, poetry,
 and fairy tales have led us to believe that it takes someone else to fulfil our needs and make us happy.

Loving your wife/woman

1- Your Problem

You are in a relationship. She believes in love, and has committed herself to you.
You are a schizoid, you like her and want her to be your partner.
Initially, your relationship progresses well, and you have great expectations.
She is happy and wants to be with you forever.
You need your own space, and time alone.
She is extremely affectionate and shows this through loving gestures which you try to avoid.
Her love seems enormous, while yours is modest. And you almost always show her coldness.
Soon she becomes disillusioned.

2- Her Problem
If this continues, and your silences and coldness continue, she will become more anxious.
In the beginning, she may try to play her anxiety down.
Later, her friends and family may recommend that she leave you.
Despite her sadness, she will remain committed to you, and will try and save the relationship
by ignoring everyone except her heart.
She will want things to change, you to change, your relationship to take another direction.
She wants to help you change - she wants to help you.
If you do not respond, she will start becoming indifferent.
She expects you to provide affection and stability. She expects to feel loved, to have your support...
but you seem to be somewhere else.
Eventually she feels abandoned.
She wants physical intimacy, and you are not interested. Your wife begins to lose her self-esteem.
The end looks close, and the word ‘separation’ is heard for the first time in your house.

3- What to Do
Become aware of the situation described above.
Show her affection any time you can -  with words and physical contact.
Actively practise ‘cold’ affections which do not require any special emotions, and which can be driven by thoughts.
TRY to put yourself in her place.
Explain your situation to her so she understands your limitations.
 Tell her that you do not usually express your feelings.
Do meaningful things which only require planning, and she will realize that you have thought of her.
 Buy her gifts, remember anniversaries...
Help her with the tasks that she normally takes responsibility for.
TAKE an interest in her and the things her family does.
DO things just because she likes you to do them.
FIND out what she worries about and, because the problem is not yours, remain calm and try to comfort her.
If she has serious problems, you cannot look disinterested at all. Be with her, and remain with her.

These ‘cold’ affections do not require strong emotion. They are possible and can be done – all you need is discipline.
 In addition, they have the power to keep your relationship going. If you reinforce them with ‘warm’, spontaneous affection,
they will help her to feel more secure and happy within the relationship.
In fact, they can repair your relationship, and create a more solid foundation.

Social contact causes damage

Excessive social contact may cause illness

1-Contact and damage

Excessive social contact will have a negative effect on the schizoid because it creates stress,
and this stress accumulates.

When social contact becomes excessive, the schizoid may develop acute psychological malaise, anxiety,
depression, psychotic episodes, disruptions of all type, suicidal thoughts, display hikikomori...

2- Tolerance and the need to break off …

This pattern occurs again and again: you're in a situation which involves personal contact.
This creates stress. You want to do it, you want to be there, you want to maintain it and even pursue it.
But stress levels continue to escalate and suddenly, you feel ready to explode.
If you're going out with a woman, you suddenly walk out, with no known reasons.
If you're in a group, you disappear.
You may even have a well-paying and enjoyable job which, suddenly, becomes unbearable.
When you realize that you're suffering, you may attempt to hold on, and may even succeed for a while.
Later, though, any motivation to remain will disappear, and you feel an irrepressive need to flee.

3-      Social health

According to the WHO, health is determined by physical, mental, and social well-being.
The schizoid must address the problem in his social health.
To function fully, humans require harmonious social relationships.
However, since the schizoid’s social relationships are troubled, he needs to make an adaptation (See  Treatment).
Total isolation is not healthy, and must be avoided.
Though the schizoid’s tolerance for physical presence in the social environment is minimal,
he/she should attempt to find some means of social integration which is non-threatening and satisfactory.

To love a schizoid

Below is an anecdotal sequence of events:
1- Falling in love
You are a woman, and  you  find a man who is respectful, cultured, shy ... You may fall in love with him because
of these qualities, or for another reason entirely.
When you become involved with him, you discover that there are problems – his seemingly contradictory behaviour,
 and other bewildering and distressing situations ... You begin to suffer from lack of affection.
Intrigued by his unusual reactions, you begin to investigate and discover that he is schizoid.
 You discuss the problem with your friends and family who advise you to forget about him.
In reality, though, you love him, and do not want to leave him.  You fight for him and for the relationship.
But, almost everything is against it: friends, family ... even the man himself, who does nothing to save the relationship,
and who may even ask you to leave him.  
2- The   crisis
You try not to abandon him, because you see that he needs help. You  try to help him, but have no idea how.
You begin to ask yourself whether  life with him is still possible.
With each passing moment he becomes  more ‘closed’, and you are disillusioned when you discover that
 he even finds your presence unpleasant.  
In fact, you do not appear to be the solution, but rather the problem. The more love you give,
the more he wants to escape from you.
You ask yourself whether it’s possible to help somebody who clearly does not want to be helped.
Then, one day, he says it’s over and shows you the door...  Despite this, you still do not give up...
3 - Managing the crisis
Below are some guidelines for handling the crisis.
The schizoid man may feel uncomfortable or anxious in the company of women.
If he feels this way with you, you will not be able to build a stable or steady relationship.
He needs solitude. You should respect his need for solitude and communicate with him briefly - by SMS or E Mail.
He may be enamoured of your love or, in other words, he will fall in love "in his own way."
Although he may reject you from his life for no reason, you should not leave him suddenly.
Rather take a step back until, in time, the situation becomes clearer to you.   
Usually, he will need the help of a psychologist. You can encourage him to have a consultation
 for his problem with anxiety.  Some schizoids, by accepting the limitations of  both parties, manage
to maintain a relationship with their partner for many years.  Others, however, fail.
The effort to sustain the relationship will be unequal.. He will do little to make it succeed,
you will have to do a lot.
The relationship stands a chance provided you are a giving, and tolerant person.
Remember that he cannot be affectionate, or share his intimate thoughts  with you.
The foundation of his personality is schizoid, and this will never change.  
At some point, though, he will also have to compromise. If he does not, there is no future.
The schizoid balances his solitary life with very few social outings.   Thus, your social life together will be limited.
It will be difficult to have a life together. Sometimes he will insist on solitude.
At those times you may feel alone and frustrated.
So, in addition to your life together, you must have another life,
your own, personal life with your own career, friends, hobbies, projects ...
When you suffer from lack of affection, take care of yourself. 
Confide in someone you trust, the moral support will comfort you and give you strength.
For the relationship to have any future,  you have to accept him as he is and adapt your needs to his limitations. 
If he is highly schizoid,  a committed relationship may not be possible.  Before joining your life with his,
 make sure you will be able to live with his emotional limitations, and understand that he will never be capable
 of fulfilling all your relationship needs for love, intimacy, confidences, affectionate gestures,
I love you’s, a social life together.

Encyclopedia Of Mental Disorders: Schizoid PD

Definition

Schizoid personality disorder is characterized by a persistent withdrawal from social relationships and lack of emotional responsiveness in most situations. It is sometimes referred to as a "pleasure deficiency" because of the seeming inability of the person affected to experience joyful or pleasurable responses to life situations.

Description

A person with schizoid personality disorder has little or no interest in developing close interpersonal relation ships. They appear aloof, introverted and prefer being alone. Those who know them often label them as shy or a "loner." They turn inward in an effort to shut out social relationships. It is common for a person with schizoid personality disorder to avoid groups of people or appear disinterested in social situations even when they involve family. They are often perceived by others as socially inept.
A closely related trait is the absence of emotional expression. This apparent void of emotion is routinely interpreted by others as disinterested, lacking concern and insensitive to the needs of others. The person with schizoid personality disorder has particular difficulty expressing anger or hostility. In the absence of any recognizable emotion, the person portrays a dull demeanor and is easily overlooked by others. The typical person with schizoid personality disorder prefers to be viewed as "invisible" since it aids their quest to avoid social contact with others.
The person with schizoid personality disorder may be able to hold a job and meet the expectations of an employer if the responsibilities do not require more than minimal interpersonal involvement. People with this disorder may be married, but do not develop close intimate relationships with their spouse and typically show no interest in sexual relations. Their speech is typically slow and monotonous with a lethargic demeanor. Because their tendency is to turn inward, they can easily become preoccupied with their own thoughts to the exclusion of what is happening in their environment. Attempts to communicate may drift into tangents or confusing associations. They are also prone to being absent minded.

Causes and symptoms

Causes

The schizoid personality disorder has its roots in the family of the affected person. These families are typically emotionally reserved, have a high degree of formality, and have a communication style that is aloof and impersonal. Parents usually express inadequate amounts of affection to the child and provide insufficient amounts of emotional stimulus. This lack of stimulus during the first year of life is thought to be largely responsible for the person's disinterest in forming close, meaningful relationships later in life.
People with schizoid personality disorder have learned to imitate the style of interpersonal relationships modeled in their families. In this environment, affected people fail to learn basic communication skills that would enable them to develop relationships and interact effectively with others. Their communication is often vague and fragmented, which others find confusing. Many individuals with schizoid personality disorder feel misunderstood by others.

Symptoms

DSM-IV-TR specifies seven diagnostic criteria for schizoid personality disorder:
  • Avoids close relationships: People with this disorder show no interest or enjoyment in developing interpersonal relationships; this may also include family members. They perceive themselves as social misfits and believe they can function best when not dependent on anyone except themselves. They rarely date, often do not marry, and have few, if any, friends.
  • Prefers solitude: They prefer and choose activities that they can do by themselves without dependence upon or involvement by others. Examples of activities they might choose include mechanical or abstract tasks such as computer or mathematical games.
  • Avoids sex: There is typically little or no interest in having a sexual experience with another person. This would include a spouse if the affected person is married.
  • Lacks pleasure: There is an absence of pleasure in most activities. A person with schizoid personality disorder seems unable to experience the full range of emotion accessible to most people.
  • Lacks close friends: People affected with this disorder typically do not have the social skills necessary to develop meaningful interpersonal relationships. This results in few ongoing social relationships outside of immediate family members.
  • Indifferent to praise or criticism: Neither positive nor negative comments made by others elicit an emotionally expressive reaction. They don't appear concerned about what others might think of them. Despite their tendency to turn inward to escape social contact, they practice little introspection.
  • Emotional detachment: Their emotional style is aloof and perceived by others as distant or "cold." They seem unable or uninterested in expressing empathy and concern for others. Emotions are significantly restricted and most social contacts would describe their personality as very bland, dull or humorless. The person with schizoid personality disorder rarely picks up on or reciprocates normal communicational cues such as facial expressions, head nods, or smiles.

Demographics

Of all personality disorders , schizoid personality disorder is the least commonly diagnosed personality disorder in the general population. The prevalence is approximately one percent. It is diagnosed slightly more often in males.

Diagnosis

The symptoms of schizoid personality disorder may begin in childhood or adolescence showing as poor peer relationships, a tendency toward self-isolation, and underachievement in school. Children with these tendencies appear socially out-of-step with peers and often become the object of malicious teasing by their peers, which increases the feelings of isolation and social ineptness they feel.
For a diagnosis of schizoid personality disorder to be accurately made, there must be an ongoing avoidance of social relationships and a restricted range of emotion in interpersonal relationships that begin by early adulthood. There must also be the presence of at least four of the above-mentioned symptoms.
A common difficulty in diagnosing schizoid personality disorder is distinguishing it from Autistic Disorder and Asperger's Disorder , which are characterized by more severe deficits in social skills. Other individuals who would display social habits that might be viewed as "isolating" should not be given the diagnosis of schizoid personality disorder unless the personality traits are inflexible and cause significant obstacles to adequate functioning.
The diagnosis is based on a clinical interview to assess symptomatic behavior. Other assessment tools helpful in diagnosing schizoid personality disorder include:
  • Minnesota Multiphasic Personality Inventory (MMPI-2)
  • Millon Clinical Multiaxial Inventory (MCMI-II)
  • Rorschach Psychodiagnostic Test
  • Thematic Apperception Test (TAT)

Treatments

A major goal of treating a patient diagnosed with schizoid personality disorder is to combat the tendencies toward social withdrawal. Strategies should focus on enhancing self-awareness and sensitivity to their relational contacts and environment.

Psychodynamically oriented therapies

A psychodynamic approach would typically not be the first choice of treatment due to the patient's poor ability to explore his or her thoughts, emotions, and behavior. When this treatment is used, it usually centers around building a therapeutic relationship with the patient that can act as a model for use in other relationships.

Cognitive-behavioral therapy

Attempting to cognitively restructure the patient's thoughts can enhance self-insight. Constructive ways of accomplishing this would include concrete assignments such as keeping daily records of problematic behaviors or thoughts. Another helpful method can be teaching social skills through role-playing. This might enable individuals to become more conscious of communication cues given by others and sensitize them to others' needs.

Group therapy

Group therapy may provide the patient with a socializing experience that exposes them to feedback from others in a safe, controlled environment. It can also provide a means of learning and practicing social skills in which they are deficient. Since the patient usually avoids social contact, timing of group therapy is of particular importance. It is best to develop first a therapeutic relationship between therapist and patient before starting a group therapy treatment.

Family and marital therapy

It is unlikely that a person with schizoid personality disorder will seek family therapy or marital therapy. If pursued, it is usually on the initiative of the spouse or other family member. Many people with this disorder do not marry and end up living with and are dependent upon first-degree family members. In this case, therapy may be recommended for family members to educate them on aspects of change or ways to facilitate communication. Marital therapy (also called couples therapy ) may focus on helping the couple to become more involved in each other's lives or improve communication patterns.

Medications

Some patients with this disorder show signs of anxiety and depression which may prompt the use of medication to counteract these symptoms. In general, there is to date no definitive medication that is used to treat schizoid symptoms.

Prognosis

Since a person with schizoid personality disorder seeks to be isolated from others, which includes those who might provide treatment, there is only a slight chance that most patients will seek help on their own initiative. Those who do may stop treatment prematurely because of their difficulty maintaining a relationship with the professional or their lack of motivation for change.
If the degree of social impairment is mild, treatment might succeed if its focus is on maintenance of relationships related to the patient's employment. The patient's need to support him- or herself financially can act as a higher incentive for pursuit of treatment outcomes.
Once treatment ends, it is highly likely the patient will relapse into a lifestyle of social isolation similar to that before treatment.

Prevention

Since schizoid personality disorder originates in the patient's family of origin, the only known preventative measure is a nurturing, emotionally stimulating and expressive caretaking environment.

http://www.minddisorders.com/Py-Z/Schizoid-personality-disorder.html

Schizoid Personality Type: The Basics

There have been several attempts at defining schizoid personality disorder on other webpages. I won’t be redundant here. Just see any other website for more information about the diagnostic criteria, or go to http://mentalhealth.com to take a test for yourself and see if you have this personality type or "disorder" as the psychologists seem to see it.
What is the inner life of a schizoid person like?
Schizoids, deep down, honestly do not care what other people think of them. The opinions of others make almost no difference to them. They are oblivious to the effects they have on other people due to their psychological condition—they have a reduced ability to feel pleasure. In general, they are apathetic about human relationships and derive no pleasure from being around others. They are just not sociable people.
Some people tend to confuse avoidant personality disorder with schizoid personality disorder. Avoidant persons really want to be around people but cannot because of psychological inhibitions. Schizoids really do not want to be around people because people distract them from their own thoughts. Schizoids live in their own minds and their own thoughts. Most of them have rich, deep inner lives that are complex. Many, if not all, are highly intelligent.
What is the role of intelligence in contributing to schizoid personality type?
Many schizoids are highly intelligent. Some intelligent people have a hard time dealing with normal people because normal people are stupid compared to them. Therefore, some intelligent schizoids would prefer to live within their own minds than listen to the mindless drivel of the masses.
Schizoids hate to work for institutions and have no interest in career advancement.
Schizoids will work effectively enough to do their jobs well—well enough not to be fired. They have no interest in career advancement because they realize such endeavors as pointless anyway. Work does not stimulate them because they would prefer to be left alone to think and do things on their own, without the extra stimuli of other people working around them or giving them responsibilities that might interrupt their privacy. They highly value their privacy and social isolation.
Places to find schizoids
Many work jobs that allow them to be alone for long periods of time. Night security guard, graveyard shift store clerk, farmer, telecommuter, researcher, or anything that involves working with ideas or things over people in a non-social situation. Some schizoids prefer to only work part time and live very simply. Besides, material things bring them little happiness anyway, and they usually don’t have families to support.
Schizoids are not crazy
Being alone is not something that is freakish or wrong. It is a personality trait that is certainly statistically abnormal but not dangerous. Although serial killers are sometimes portrayed and loners or socially isolated, they are usually not schizoids. Why not? Because serial killers usually have an interest in interacting with people that has gone wrong along the way. They feel socially isolated, hurt, angry, and take that anger out on society. But schizoids have little anger toward society or hurt relationships. They don’t care about relationships and would prefer just to be left alone. They don’t give violence a thought because they are not interested in relationships with people.

http://www.angelfire.com/nt/ebay3/FAQ_of_Schizoid_Personality_Type.htm

A Window On a Schizoid Life

Evidently the most related thing about the author is that he is schizoid. But that does not define me as a whole. Believe it or not being schizoid is just a part of who I am. I am not arguing that it is a very important part and that a lot is rooted by that, but all schizoids are not the same and it will be very restrictive to think that because some people share a common cell in a table printed in some shrink books, that they will all have the same personality… Particularly in the case of schizoids, for whom uniqueness is of the essence.
So that you better understand the blog and my thoughts (http://schizoid-personality.110mb.com)  it is of importance that you understand what the Schizoid Personality “Disorder” (SPD) is. Only then will you comprehend my specificities. Like the fact that I am married, very rare for schizoids, especially male ones. And not just married, but being with my special someone for now over 14 years (hands up for her being able to endure my lack of emotions) take that you “cannot sustain a close relationship for long period of time” shrink definition, I guess you did not think that it takes two people to have a relationship, and I found the one that can sustain it.
Of course being schizoid for as long as I have been (well really since always probably, thought you cannot be diagnosed a schizoid until after the end of childhood, when your psyche is suppose to be conform to the society standards) comes with other personality traits. Without being full blown “disorders”, my being schizoid comes with a side of Shizotypal, Anti-social, and Obsessive-Compulsive behaviours.
Yet again I am more than just the sum of those personalities. For example I am French AND Canadian (do not understand “French Canadian”). Having dual citizenship is merely relevant, but actually having lived into two different societies (and different they are, even if both occidental) is the kind of experience shaping a mind differently.
Take also into account that I have a daughter born (September, 2000) and raised in Canada (Ontario).
The ethnicity, age and sex are also important factors; I am Caucasian and born in December, 1970 near Paris (France). As for the sex, well you should already have understood by now that I am a male.
Finally: I did some things that might not seem very schizoid of me at first glance (being a journalist or a trainer or working in a shared office). Especially if you are looking for some kind of an archetype of schizoid. Know that I do not have Avoidant Personality (often associated with Schizoid Personality) which makes a big difference, and as always, I truly believe that life experience is full of surprises, it brought me in those places, which I hated, but I survived it. Plus, over the years I mastered a few neat tricks, I have my ways around people.
I don’t think the work you do define who you are, quite the opposite actually. Currently, I am a System Engineer (a geek that so happened to be able to do geeky things for a living).
Name is irrelevant (see if I care about prenominology) but I guess you might think it’s nice to know each other, of course I don’t, but hey, I can abbey by your rules… Name’s “Jack” or “Jacques” if you prefer the French touch.
Well with all that I can say, yeah sure, "I Am Schizoid But Coping"

Jack,

Asperger's in the Workplace

Asperger's Syndrome may cause difficulties in finding a job or moving up in a company. With acceptance and perseverance, individuals with AS can have successful careers.

People with Asperger's Syndrome, a form of high functioning autism, may have a more difficult time in the workplace than the average worker. While they may be some of the most highly intelligent and hard working individuals, it is sometimes hard for people with AS to establish themselves in today's working world.

Developing Interview Skills with Asperger's

Asperger's Syndrome affects the social development of a person. It is often hard for a person with Asperger's Syndrome to look people in the eye or make appropriate conversation. It can be very difficult for them to distinguish between sarcasm or regular speaking, and it is even more challenging to read any nonverbal cues given off by others. All these characteristics can make an individual feel uncomfortable in social situations, as well as make it extremely difficult when trying to land a job.
Many people with Asperger's are extremely intelligent, if not experts in multiple subjects. They are often at the top of their class or have earned more than one degree in college. They are very exact to detail and have excellent memories. All these things look great on a resume, but they do not always come across so well in an interview.

People with AS often have a slight processing delay which affects the speed in which they respond or answer any questions. They might not say the right things or they may say too much not realizing that the other person was not looking for such an in depth answer or that they have lost interest.
Before an interview, those with Asperger's can review all possible questions and prepare themselves with an answer ahead of time. It can be helpful to have practice interviews with a friend or get some helpful feedback from another person. Eye contact can be a big problem, but it can be managed through an interview.

Communicating Effectively at Work

Once landing a job, it is important to be able to adequately communicate with coworkers at work. Although it may be difficult for Aspies to interpret a coworker's body language or non verbal cues, they can be sure to ask questions for clarification when they don't understand. Many employees with Asperger's find that they can much more easily communicate through emails or memos since they do not have to figure out any hidden messages through a worker's tone of voice or facial expressions.

The Decision to Tell Coworkers About Asperger's

It is a personal decision whether or not to tell an employer or fellow employees at work about Asperger's Syndrome. Some people come right out during a job interview that they have Asperger's and explain how they might see the world a little differently, but it will not affect their job skills. Some choose to keep it a secret fearing they might not be accepted equally. Asperger's Syndrome is a real medical condition which cannot be discriminated against according to the Americans with Disabilities Act. Regardless of this, some still choose to keep open knowledge of their Asperger's hidden. It is only if problems arise at work that they may choose who and when to tell.

Contributing to the Workplace

People with Asperger's Syndrome can contribute great things to their jobs and careers. They may not be able to express themselves verbally as well as others, but much credit can be given to their work. Some of the most brilliant minds have been people with Asperger's Syndrome. Their perfectionism can be a great strength to getting the job done right and allowing few mistakes.

Establishing a Reputation for Leadership

While individuals with Asperger's Syndrome might be the best and brightest of their trade, it is often difficult for them to establish a reputation for being leaders. In much of today's world, where so much is given to how a person relates to one another, a person with Asperger's might not come across as a leader. The lack of eye contact and lack of self expression might not allow them seem like much of a leader. They may feel uncomfortable when given a team or group to oversee, not because of the inability to manage the job, but the awkwardness which comes from dealing with coworkers socially. With practice, workers with AS can find ways to better express themselves and come across with more leadership skills to others.

Moving Up Within a Company

It is not appropriate to suggest people can move up in a company based on the way they suck up to the boss or management, but it is true that those who are noticed more are thought about more for promotions. In a fair world it would always be the best worker for the job, but today it doesn't always happen that way. While most people with Asperger's don't understand the need for small talk, it can be helpful to practice "water cooler conversations" with their coworkers so that they might be seen and heard beyond their work.

"Being Your Own Boss"

Some people with Asperger's discover the best way to work is to work for themselves. If they are their own boss, then they don't have to worry about the the misinterpretation of others or how people may react. They may easily start their own business and be quite successful.

Moving On When Jobs Don't Work Out

Regardless of what job or career path those with Asperger's choose, it is important that they can move on if things don't work out. There is a strong need for routine in an Aspie's life. Sometimes the ending of a job can mean devastation to an Aspie's structured life. What will he or she do now? How can they handle such change? Where will they go?
There are many jobs and career paths that may be a better fit to someone with Asperger's. Aspie's tend to choose jobs more in the technical field of work. These are the scientists, the computer programmers, lab technicians, website administrators, map makers, geologists, engineers, or those that are self employed in a business of their own.
People with Asperger's Syndrome have every right to equal treatment in the workplace. They cannot be discriminated against because of their differences. Although difficult, there are ways to work around any problems which may arise from having Asperger's. With continued hard work and possible help with social skills practicing, a person with AS can lead a highly successful life.