What is a characteristic feature of schizoid personality disorder?

A characteristic feature of schizoid personality disorder is indeed the withdrawal from social contact leading to isolation. Individuals with this disorder often display a persistent pattern of detachment from social relationships and exhibit a restricted range of emotional expression in interpersonal settings. They typically prefer solitary activities and may seem indifferent to praise or criticism from others. This profound disinterest in forming close relationships often leads to social isolation, which is a hallmark of the condition.

The feature of withdrawal can also manifest as a lack of desire for intimacy or a preference for being alone, creating difficulties in establishing and maintaining relationships. This behavior contrasts sharply with the traits found in other personality disorders, such as histrionic personality disorder, which involves seeking attention through dramatic behavior, or antisocial personality disorder, characterized by a disregard for social norms. Therefore, the recognition of withdrawal and isolation as core themes of schizoid personality disorder emphasizes the nature of the disorder's impact on social functioning and emotional expression.