(Part 2) Non-Affective Psychotic Disorders: Schizotypal Personality Disorder (SPD)

A set of flashcards focused on the key concepts, definitions, and diagnostic criteria related to Schizotypal Personality Disorder, as discussed in the lecture.

What is Schizotypal Personality Disorder (SPD)?

A disorder characterized by social and interpersonal deficits, cognitive distortions, and eccentric behavior, often seen as an attenuated form of schizophrenia.

Who initially introduced the term 'schizotype'?

Sandor Rado in 1953.

What is Meehl's theory regarding schizogenes?

Meehl posited that a dominant schizogene leads to disruptions in synaptic signal selectivity (hypokrisia), causing cognitive distortions (schizotaxia) that can result in schizotypy.

What are some characteristics defined by Meehl associated with schizotypy?

Ambivalence, aversive drift, dereism, autism, and cognitive slippage.

How does the modern view of schizotypy differ from Meehl's quasi-dimensional view?

The modern view considers schizotypy to be fully dimensional across the population, while Meehl viewed it as dimensional only in those with the schizogene.

What criteria define Schizotypal Personality Disorder according to DSM-5?

A pervasive pattern of social and interpersonal deficits, cognitive or perceptual distortions, and eccentric behaviors, requiring five or more specific symptoms.

What is one reason for the diagnostic heterogeneity in SPD?

Due to the requirement of any five out of nine symptoms for diagnosis, there are 256 possible symptom combinations.

What is a common course of illness for individuals with SPD?

SPD generally has a stable course, with few individuals progressing to schizophrenia or another psychotic disorder.

How is treatment for Schizotypal Personality Disorder typically approached?

Treatment often involves Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and may include low-dose antipsychotic medication for associated symptoms of anxiety or depression.

What is one significant overlap between Schizotypal Personality Disorder and Autism Spectrum Disorder?

Both can present with social difficulties and unusual thinking; however, they have distinguishing characteristics that differentiate them.