Schizotypal Personality Disorder (STPD)

Sample Answer

Schizotypal Personality Disorder (STPD) is a complex condition characterized by odd beliefs or magical thinking, unusual perceptual experiences, eccentric behavior, and significant social and interpersonal deficits, often accompanied by intense social anxiety that does not diminish with familiarity. Addressing social anxiety is a key treatment goal for STPD, as it contributes heavily to the pervasive social isolation experienced by individuals with the disorder. Both Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) offer distinct approaches to managing these symptoms.

Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and Social Anxiety in STPD

CBT for STPD primarily targets the distorted thoughts, beliefs, and behavioral patterns that fuel social anxiety.

Mechanisms of Action:

Cognitive Restructuring: Individuals with STPD often harbor distorted cognitions, such as ideas of reference (believing ordinary events have special meaning for them), paranoid ideation, and misinterpretations of social cues. These cognitive distortions can significantly heighten social anxiety, as they lead to beliefs that others are judging them,