Which of the following is considered a positive symptom of schizophrenia?

• A. Hallucinations
• B. Flat affect
• C. Lack of motivation
• D. Social withdrawal

Answer: (A)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Understand that symptoms of schizophrenia are generally categorized into positive and negative symptoms. Positive symptoms refer to an excess or distortion of normal functions, while negative symptoms indicate a reduction or loss of normal functions.
2. Identify the examples of positive symptoms, which typically include hallucinations, delusions, and disorganized thinking or behavior.
3. Recognize that hallucinations involve perceiving things that are not present, such as hearing voices, which is a classic positive symptom.
4. Note that flat affect (reduced emotional expression), lack of motivation, and social withdrawal are examples of negative symptoms, as they represent a decrease in normal emotional and social functioning.
5. Conclude that among the options given, hallucinations are the positive symptom of schizophrenia.