Which of the following best defines schizophrenia as understood in AP Psychology?

• A. A severe psychological disorder characterized by disturbances in thought, perception, emotion, and behavior, often including delusions and hallucinations
• B. A personality disorder involving a long-term pattern of disregard for, or violation of, the rights of others
• C. A mood disorder marked by periods of extreme sadness and loss of interest in activities
• D. An anxiety disorder characterized by persistent, excessive worry about various aspects of life

Answer: (A)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Step 1: Understand that schizophrenia is classified as a severe psychological disorder, which means it significantly impacts a person's mental functioning and daily life.
2. Step 2: Recognize the key features of schizophrenia, which include disturbances in thought processes, perception, emotions, and behavior.
3. Step 3: Identify common symptoms associated with schizophrenia, such as delusions (false beliefs) and hallucinations (perceiving things that are not present).
4. Step 4: Differentiate schizophrenia from other psychological disorders by noting that it is not primarily a personality disorder, mood disorder, or anxiety disorder, but rather involves a complex disruption of reality processing.
5. Step 5: Conclude that the best definition of schizophrenia in AP Psychology is a severe psychological disorder characterized by disturbances in thought, perception, emotion, and behavior, often including delusions and hallucinations.