Which of the following exemplifies a symptom of paranoid personality disorder?

• A. Repeated disregard for the rights of others and violation of social norms
• B. Excessive emotionality and attention-seeking behavior
• C. A lack of interest in social relationships and a preference for solitary activities
• D. A pervasive distrust and suspicion of others, believing that others are out to harm or deceive them

Answer: (D)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Step 1: Understand the core features of paranoid personality disorder (PPD). PPD is characterized primarily by pervasive distrust and suspiciousness of others, interpreting their motives as malevolent.
2. Step 2: Review each option and compare it to the defining symptoms of PPD. For example, repeated disregard for others' rights and violation of social norms is more typical of antisocial personality disorder.
3. Step 3: Recognize that excessive emotionality and attention-seeking behavior align more with histrionic personality disorder, not PPD.
4. Step 4: Note that a lack of interest in social relationships and preference for solitary activities is characteristic of schizoid personality disorder, which differs from PPD.
5. Step 5: Conclude that the correct symptom exemplifying paranoid personality disorder is a pervasive distrust and suspicion of others, believing that others intend to harm or deceive them.