PYC3712
Assignment 1
Semester 1
2026
, PYC3712: Abnormal Behaviour and Mental Health
Assignment 01
Question 1: Diagnostic Classification According to DSM-5-TR
Based on the comprehensive evaluation of Simonny's presenting symptoms and
behavioral patterns, his clinical presentation is most consistent with Schizoid Personality
Disorder (SPD) as classified in the DSM-5-TR under Cluster A Personality Disorders
(American Psychiatric Association, 2022). This diagnosis is supported by the fulfillment
of the general criteria for personality disorders and the specific diagnostic criteria
outlined for SPD.
Diagnostic Criteria and Clinical Justification
According to the DSM-5-TR, Schizoid Personality Disorder is characterized by a
pervasive pattern of detachment from social relationships and a restricted range of
emotional expression in interpersonal settings, beginning by early adulthood and
present in a variety of contexts. The diagnosis requires the presence of at least four of
seven specific criteria (American Psychiatric Association, 2022; Triebwasser et al.,
2023). Simonny's presentation clearly meets six of these criteria, providing robust
diagnostic evidence.
Criterion 1: Neither desires nor enjoys close relationships, including being part of
a family. Simonny demonstrates profound social withdrawal by choosing to live alone in
a two-roomed shack on his grandfather's farm, deliberately distancing himself from his
parents who provided him with a newly built house. His decision to abandon the house
and relocate to an isolated location without neighbors reflects an active avoidance of
familial proximity. The case notes that he is "a man of few words" and speaks only
infrequently with his parents, indicating minimal investment in maintaining even basic
family relationships (Lenzenweger & Willett, 2021).
Criterion 2: Almost always chooses solitary activities. Simonny's behavioral pattern
is characterized by consistent preference for isolation. He "spends all his time alone"
Assignment 1
Semester 1
2026
, PYC3712: Abnormal Behaviour and Mental Health
Assignment 01
Question 1: Diagnostic Classification According to DSM-5-TR
Based on the comprehensive evaluation of Simonny's presenting symptoms and
behavioral patterns, his clinical presentation is most consistent with Schizoid Personality
Disorder (SPD) as classified in the DSM-5-TR under Cluster A Personality Disorders
(American Psychiatric Association, 2022). This diagnosis is supported by the fulfillment
of the general criteria for personality disorders and the specific diagnostic criteria
outlined for SPD.
Diagnostic Criteria and Clinical Justification
According to the DSM-5-TR, Schizoid Personality Disorder is characterized by a
pervasive pattern of detachment from social relationships and a restricted range of
emotional expression in interpersonal settings, beginning by early adulthood and
present in a variety of contexts. The diagnosis requires the presence of at least four of
seven specific criteria (American Psychiatric Association, 2022; Triebwasser et al.,
2023). Simonny's presentation clearly meets six of these criteria, providing robust
diagnostic evidence.
Criterion 1: Neither desires nor enjoys close relationships, including being part of
a family. Simonny demonstrates profound social withdrawal by choosing to live alone in
a two-roomed shack on his grandfather's farm, deliberately distancing himself from his
parents who provided him with a newly built house. His decision to abandon the house
and relocate to an isolated location without neighbors reflects an active avoidance of
familial proximity. The case notes that he is "a man of few words" and speaks only
infrequently with his parents, indicating minimal investment in maintaining even basic
family relationships (Lenzenweger & Willett, 2021).
Criterion 2: Almost always chooses solitary activities. Simonny's behavioral pattern
is characterized by consistent preference for isolation. He "spends all his time alone"
