The Secret Schizoid Reading Answers: IELTS Reading Practice Test with Answers

1. Whereas a typical schizoid might behave in an aloof or indifferent manner, the secret schizoid tends to appear, superficially at least, a very ………….. person, and one who is capable of interacting very successfully with those around him.
 

2. The secret schizoid appears socially assured, but this is only a very good ………., put up make it seem as if he is in tune with what is going on in the real world, whilst at the same time protecting him from it.
 

3. The way the secret schizoid behaves in public is only ……………….., the outside world never gets a glimpse of his real self, which remains hidden.
 

4. As they are unwilling to try to overcome their innate fear of emotional intimacy, schizoids who wish to lead a full and inclusive life must develop a separate ………….. and create an invisible barrier between this and their private self.
 

5. Schizoids differ from schizophrenics in that they have fairly decent understanding ………………………. and are not inclined to suffer from the same incapacitating symptoms, like hallucinations, delusions and disorganised thinking.
 

6. A history of schizophrenia in the family leaves a person more …………………. to developing schizoid tendencies.

7. Although it is not known what causes schizoid personality disorders, some suggest a lack of ………………….. during the first few years of life is partly to blame.

The Secret Schizoid  Reading Answers with Explanations (1-7)
 

Type of question: Sentence Completion

In this question type, you are required to fill in the blanks in a given sentence with words or phrases taken directly from the passage. These questions test your ability to understand specific details and information presented in the text.

How to best answer: 

• Read the sentence carefully to understand the context.
• Identify keywords or clues that can help you find the answer in the passage.
• Scan the passage for relevant information, focusing on the area around the blank.
• Choose the answer that fits grammatically and contextually.
• Verify your answers and finalise them.
   

Reference: From Paragraph A: “Unlike the overtly schizoid or schizotypal individual who is characterised by aloofness, coldness and indifference, the secret schizoid may present himself as an engaging and interactive individual according to Klein.”

Explanation: This line indicates that secret schizoids appear socially active and engaging despite their true nature. Their outward behaviour contrasts with the aloofness of overt schizoids, making "engaging" the correct answer.

Reference: Paragraph C: "What the schizoids fear most is the consequences of emotional intimacy, so by erecting an invisible barrier between their public persona and their real self, the schizoids can avoid ever having to confront this fear and yet lead a relatively active and inclusive lifestyle.."

Explanation: This line suggests that secret schizoids construct a psychological defence to separate their public image from their true personality. This protective mechanism prevents emotional closeness, making the "defensive barrier" the correct answer.
 

Reference: From Paragraph C: "In effect, they disown the ‘character’ they play in public ~ the very credible front they put up – preserving their real personality intact."

Explanation: This line implies that the secret schizoid’s public behaviour is not genuine but rather a performance. They maintain a convincing social front while concealing their true self, making "an act" the correct answer.

Reference: From Paragraph C: "What the schizoids fear most is the consequences of emotional intimacy, so by erecting an invisible barrier between their public persona and their real self, the schizoids can avoid ever having to confront this fear and yet lead a relatively active and inclusive lifestyle."

Explanation: This line highlights that secret schizoids develop a separate public identity to interact with others. This persona helps them maintain social relationships without revealing their true emotions, making "public persona" the correct answer.

Reference: Paragraph D: "Though the two fall within the realms of the same family of illness, the schizophrenic personality disorder is far more destructive, whereas schizoids can, depending on the severity of their affliction, function fairly normally and even from relationships with others (based on intellectual, physical, families, occupational or recreational, but most certainly not emotional, activities), and have a relatively fair grasp of reality."

Explanation: This line explains that, unlike schizophrenics, schizoids can understand and engage with the real world. Their condition does not impair their sense of reality, making "reality" the correct answer.

Reference: From Paragraph D: "It is true, however, that a family background of schizophrenia leaves one more vulnerable to or likely to develop a schizoid or schizotypal personality."

Explanation: This line states that having a family history of schizophrenia increases the likelihood of developing schizoid tendencies. The genetic link makes a person more susceptible, making "vulnerable" the correct answer.

Reference: From Paragraph E: “The causes of schizoid personality disorder are not clear, but it is theorised that an absence of parental affection and attention during early childhood may encourage the defensive tendencies and fear of intimacy that schizoid’s exhibit."

Explanation: This line suggests that a lack of parental care in childhood may lead to emotional detachment in adulthood. The absence of affection contributes to the schizoid’s fear of intimacy, making "parental affection/parental attention" the correct answer.

Also Read: IELTS Reading Band Score 2025