They are typically “followers,” and shy away from leadership roles. Common careers include lab or library work and nighttime jobs, like security. [2] X Research source

They are overwhelmingly indifferent to both criticism of their work and praise for a job well done. [3] X Research source They rarely exhibit an effort to get promoted or perform better than others. Most are considered highly functional since they are able to keep a job, but do not excel in their fields of study/work.

Such daydreaming likely affects work production and contributes to underperforming.

They typically avoid group activities like sports or social/professional clubs. If they are on a team, they avoid leadership roles and may choose tasks that can be completed or played without assistance.

They seem indifferent even in situations where it is inappropriate, such as emergencies or tragedies, or events that most people would be happy about, like the birth of a new family member. They do not respond to emotional expression by others, and may not even recognize such feelings since they do not experience them personally.

Their personality differences are often expressed as “eccentric” because responses are inconsistent with normal social behavior, but not usually completely unrelated.

Also, keep in mind that even though schizoid personality disorder can affect men and women, men are more frequently diagnosed with schizoid personality disorder than women.

Generally, people with this disorder show no interest in making friends or engaging in close relationships. Competing theories suggest some people with schizoid PD may desire close relationships, but find it easier to be alone than try to fit social expectations.

They almost always either live alone or continue living with their parents into adulthood. [7] X Research source They show little to no interest in sexual relationships, and do not gain satisfaction from them. [8] X Research source

While those with schizoid PD tend to have elaborate fantasy lives and daydream about them, they are fully aware that these are fantasies. Fantasy lives and real lives do not blend into each other like they do for those with more severe forms of schizophrenia.

Being quiet is a possible sign of schizoid PD, but erratic or dissociative speech may denote a more severe form of schizophrenia. “Eccentric” behavior is defined as slightly odd or uncommon, often in a humorous manner. [12] X Research source Schizophrenic speech is illogical and statements may be difficult to understand. [13] X Trustworthy Source HelpGuide Nonprofit organization dedicated to providing free, evidence-based mental health and wellness resources. Go to source This can somewhat help distinguish schizoid PD from autism. Autistic people vary in communication abilities, and may seem awkward and have word-finding problems (although this varies between people). They may talk a lot about their favorite subjects. They also tend to have unusual nonverbal communication, such as not making eye contact, seeming unusually emotional or under-emotional, and stimming. [14] X Research source

Autistic people may have a hard time figuring out what other people are thinking and feeling, but can be deeply emotional, especially with regards to getting overwhelmed easily. Those with antisocial PD, often called sociopathy, do not actually feel emotions but are able to mimic them and rationalize even inappropriate reactions.

People with antisocial personality disorder cannot hold down a job because they will not follow rules, and often find themselves in legal trouble. Some autistic people have difficulty maintaining steady employment due to a tendency towards overstimulation, difficulty staying organized, and a reduced ability to control particular emotions, especially frustration.

Symptoms of schizoid PD may be early signs of schizophrenia, and may get worse with time. [18] X Trustworthy Source Mayo Clinic Educational website from one of the world’s leading hospitals Go to source