Social Psychiatry, Vol. 54 No. 2, 2026.
Meeting abstract
https://doi.org/10.24869/spsih.2026.258
Challenges in the Treatment of Schizoid Personality Disorder – A Case Report
David Zovko
; Dubrava University Hospital, Avenija Gojka Šuška 6, 10000 Zagreb, Croatia
*
Igor Marinić
; Dubrava University Hospital, Avenija Gojka Šuška 6, 10000 Zagreb, Croatia
* Corresponding author.
Abstract
Introduction: Schizoid personality disorder is a
personality disorder that, according to the DSM‑5
classification, falls within cluster A, while in the
ICD-10 classification it is described as a separate
entity. The main characteristics of individuals
with this disorder are social isolation due to difficulties
in establishing interpersonal relationships,
as well as emotional coldness, indifference, or a
flattened affect. Objective: Through a case report
and a review of the literature, to present the challenges
in treating patients with schizoid personality
disorder. Case report: The patient has been
in psychiatric treatment since his high school
years. During the diagnostic process, diagnoses
of schizoid personality disorder and dysthymic
disorder were established. He is socially isolated,
unemployed, spends most of his time at home
engaged in solitary activities, and has family support.
An individual supportive psychotherapeutic
process was initiated with the patient, aimed at improving social functioning. Through prolonged
therapeutic work, the patient accepted inclusion
in a socio-rehabilitation program. In the group,
he participates more passively, but he is satisfied
with this form of support and, during his participation,
has established communication with other
group members. The main therapeutic challenges
that remain are further social integration and
improvement of everyday functioning. Conclusion:
According to the available literature, there
are various therapeutic approaches that include
psychotherapeutic, sociotherapeutic, and psychopharmacological
methods. This case shows that
individual psychotherapeutic work can increase a
patient’s readiness to engage in socio-rehabilitation
programs, which may be an important step
in the treatment of individuals with schizoid personality
disorder.
Keywords
schizoid personality disorder; socio-rehabilitation; supportive psychotherapy
Hrčak ID:
352914
URI
Publication date:
15.6.2026.
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