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

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

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 excesses or distortions of normal functions, while negative symptoms refer to reductions or losses of normal functions.
2. Identify what positive symptoms typically include, such as hallucinations, delusions, and disorganized thinking or behavior.
3. Recognize that hallucinations involve perceiving things that are not present, such as hearing voices, which is an example of a positive symptom.
4. Note that social withdrawal, flat affect (reduced emotional expression), and lack of motivation are examples of negative symptoms because they represent a decrease in normal behaviors or emotions.
5. Conclude that among the options given, hallucinations are considered a positive symptom of schizophrenia.