Stu has no friends except his brother. He would desperately love to date women but is certain no woman would be interested in him. He tried a dating service but was convinced that the secretary was trying to get rid of him because he was such a poor candidate. The most likely diagnosis for Stu is ________

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Stu's lack of social relationships, desire for acceptance, and fear of rejection are characteristic of avoidant personality disorder. The belief that no woman would be interested in him and the perception that the dating service secretary was trying to get rid of him also suggest avoidant PD. Schizoid personality disorder involves a persistent detachment from social relationships, which is not the case for Stu. Paranoid personality disorder is characterized by distrust and suspicion of others, and although Stu may exhibit some paranoia, this does not appear to be the primary issue. Similarly, schizotypal personality disorder involves eccentricities in thought and behavior, which are not evident in the description of Stu's behavior.

Stu Has No Friends Except His Brother