Symptoms:

People with schizotypal personality disorder may be very disturbed. Their odd behavior may look like that of people with schizophrenia. For example, they may also have unusual preoccupations and fears, such as fears of being monitored by government agencies.

More commonly, however, people with schizotypal personality disorder behave oddly and have unusual beliefs (such as aliens). They cling to these beliefs so strongly that it prevents them from having relationships.

People with schizotypal personality disorder feel upset by their difficulty in forming and keeping close relationships. This is different from people with schizoid personality disorder, who do not want to form relationships.

Signs and tests:

Some of the common signs of schizotypal personality disorder include the following:

• Discomfort in social situations
• Inappropriate displays of feelings
• No close friends
• Odd behavior or appearance
• Odd beliefs, fantasies, or preoccupations
• Odd speech

Treatment:

Some people may be helped by antipsychotic medications. Talk therapy (psychotherapy) is a big part of treatment. Social skills training can help some people cope with social situations.

Expectations (prognosis):

Schizotypal personality disorder is usually a long-term (chronic) illness. The outcome of treatment varies based on the severity of the disorder.

Complications:

• Poor social skills
• Lack of interpersonal relationships

Calling your health care provider:

Talk to your health care provider or mental health professional if:

• You have trouble forming and keeping relationships due to unusual beliefs
• You suspect that your child may have this problem

Prevention:

There is no known prevention. Awareness of risk, such as a family history of schizophrenia, may allow early diagnosis.