Assignment 1 Semester 1 2026
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Due Date: March 2026
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, QUESTION 1
DSM-5-TR CLASSIFICATION AND DIAGNOSTIC JUSTIFICATION OF
SIMONNY’S BEHAVIOUR
The case of Simonny presents a long-standing pattern of social withdrawal,
emotional detachment and limited interpersonal functioning. In order to classify his
behaviour accurately, it is necessary to apply the diagnostic criteria outlined in the
Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders Fifth Edition Text Revision and
integrate theoretical understanding of abnormal behaviour (American Psychiatric
Association 2022; Sue, Sue and Sue 2022). Based on the information provided,
Simonny’s presentation is most consistent with Schizoid Personality Disorder.
DSM 5 TR Classification
According to the DSM 5 TR, Schizoid Personality Disorder is classified under Cluster
A personality disorders. These disorders are characterised by odd or eccentric
patterns of thinking and behaviour. The core feature of Schizoid Personality Disorder
is a pervasive pattern of detachment from social relationships and a restricted range
of emotional expression in interpersonal settings (American Psychiatric Association
2022).
The DSM 5 TR specifies that the individual must show at least four characteristic
features, including neither desiring nor enjoying close relationships, almost always
choosing solitary activities, little interest in sexual experiences with another person,
taking pleasure in few activities, lacking close friends, appearing indifferent to praise
or criticism, and showing emotional coldness or flattened affect (American
Psychiatric Association 2022).
Application of Diagnostic Criteria to the Case
Simonny demonstrates a clear and consistent preference for solitude. He lives alone
in a remote shack and avoids social interaction. He shows no interest in forming
friendships or intimate relationships and has never been involved in one. This
satisfies the criterion of neither desiring nor enjoying close relationships.
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