What is one of the positive symptoms of schizophrenia?

In the context of schizophrenia, positive symptoms refer to an excess or distortion of normal functions or experiences. Delusions are a key example of a positive symptom because they involve false beliefs that are strongly held despite contradictory evidence. These can manifest in various forms, such as paranoid delusions, grandiose beliefs, or delusions of reference.

Delusions represent a fundamental change in how a person interprets reality, contributing significantly to the overall manifestation of schizophrenia. They typically result in impairments in social and occupational functioning, and understanding this symptom is crucial for diagnosing and treating the illness effectively.

In contrast, flat affect, diminished motivation, and decreased fluency are considered negative symptoms of schizophrenia. Negative symptoms reflect a reduction or absence of normal emotional responses or behaviors, highlighting the difference between positive and negative symptoms in this mental health condition.