Why Do Schizophrenics Withdraw Socially?

Schizophrenia is a disabling disorder and social withdrawal in schizophrenia is related to particularly adverse outcomes. Social withdrawal may be a result of “passive” motivation (disinterest or lack of drive to engage with others) or “active” motivation (fear, hostility, or distrust of others).

Is social withdrawal a symptom of schizophrenia?

Social withdrawal or asociality is one of the primary negative symptoms of schizophrenia and has a significant impact on functioning of the patient (Puig et al., 2008).

How does schizophrenia affect you socially?

Schizophrenia typically involves poor social functioning. Patients with schizophrenia, for example, display poorer social skills and report fewer close relationships than patients without schizophrenia (Green et al., 2008, Hooley, 2008).