Essay:Andrew Schlafly--psychopathology

Psychological analysis of public and historical figures is a popular academic pastime. Careers have been devoted to psychological studies of writers, politicians, and other political figures. The task is, however, fraught with pitfalls. There is a limited amount of information to work with, most of it public. The private thoughts of the individual can only be inferred.

That being said, Andy Schlafly has a large body of writing, and a large number of interpersonal interactions that have been made public, and this evidence allows for some speculation as to his mental state.

Using the DSM as a model, Schlafly most closely conforms to the diagnosis of Paranoid Personality Disorder.

Definition (via Wikipedia)
This disorder is characterized by a pervasive distrust and suspicion of others such that their motives are interpreted as malevolent, beginning by early adulthood and present in a variety of contexts, as indicated by four (or more) of the following:


 * 1) Suspects, without sufficient basis, that others are exploiting, harming, or deceiving him or her
 * This is evident in just about every article of Schalfly's but especially his "Liberal" series.
 * 1) Is preoccupied with unjustified doubts about the loyalty or trustworthiness of friends or associates
 * This can be seen in his purge of editors and sysops, as well as refusal to give additional rights to editors.
 * 1) Is reluctant to confide in others because of unwarranted fear that the information will be used maliciously against him or her
 * Illustrated in his secret communications, fora, SDG, and incessant denial of additional rights to even longtime editors, as well as refusal to share information about certain things like the FBI incident or CollegeRepublican.
 * 1) Reads benign remarks or events as threatening or demeaning.
 * See anything about "school prayer".
 * 1) Persistently bears grudges, i.e., is unforgiving of insults, injuries, or slights
 * Permaban, anyone?
 * 1) Perceives attacks on his or her character or reputation that are not apparent to others and is quick to react angrily or to counterattack.
 * 90/10 talk talk talk!
 * 1) Has recurrent suspicions, without justification, regarding fidelity of spouse or sexual partner.
 * Kenny...where are you?

The traits, behaviors and characteristics


 * Do not occur exclusively during the course of a mood disorder accompanied by psychotic features nor other psychotic disorders.
 * Are not due to the direct physiological effects of a general medical condition.