Symptoms
Name one schizophrenia symptom criteria from the DSM-5
1. Delusions (false, firmly held beliefs not based in reality)
2. Hallucinations (perceiving things that aren’t there, often auditory)
3. Disorganized speech (incoherent or frequently derailed communication)
4. Grossly disorganized or catatonic behavior: Disordered actions that are inappropriate or lack normal organization, or a significant reduction in motor activity.
5. Negative symptoms (such as diminished emotional expression, reduced motivation, or social withdrawal)
Which neurotransmitter is most linked to schizophrenia?
Dopamine.
How many core symptoms must be present for a schizophrenia diagnosis?
Two or more, (each present for at least one month).
Name one environmental risk factor.
Prenatal stress, cannabis use, trauma, or urban upbringing.
What is the main type of medication used to treat schizophrenia?
Atypical (SGA's)
What’s the difference between positive and negative symptoms
Positive = added experiences (e.g., hallucinations, delusions)
Negative = loss of normal function (e.g., flat affect, low motivation).
Which brain regions show reduced volume in schizophrenia?
Frontal lobe and hippocampus.
How long must symptoms last for a diagnosis?
At least 6 months.
Do men or women typically develop schizophrenia earlier?
Men (late teens to early 20s).
What is one common side effect of antipsychotic medication?
Weight gain, diabetes and sedation.
Give an example of a negative symptom
Flat affect, alogia (reduced speech), avolition (lack of motivation), or anhedonia (loss of pleasure).
What does hyperactivity in the dopamine pathway cause?
Positive symptoms like hallucinations and delusions.
What's the difference between hallucinations and delusions?
Delusions - false, firmly held beliefs not based in reality
Hallucinations - perceiving things that aren’t there, often auditory
How can culture or social context affect schizophrenia prognosis?
People in collectivist cultures often have better recovery rates due to stronger community and family support systems.
Name one type of therapy used for schizophrenia.
Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) for psychosis.
What is the difference between hallucinations and delusions?
Hallucinations are false sensory experiences; delusions are false beliefs.
What do brain imaging studies show about the ventricles in people with schizophrenia?
They tend to have enlarged ventricles.
Name one condition that must be ruled out before diagnosing schizophrenia.
Substance use, mood disorder, or medical condition causing psychosis.
What factors predict better recovery?
Good social support, early treatment, and strong medication adherence.
Why do some people with schizophrenia stop taking their medication?
Because of side effects, poor insight, or lack of support to maintain treatment.
What are cognitive symptoms in schizophrenia?
Problems with attention, memory, and executive functioning (e.g., difficulty planning or focusing).
Which part of the brain shrinks faster over time in people with schizophrenia
Grey matter
What is disorganized speech and catatonic behavior?
Disordered actions that are inappropriate or lack normal organization, or a significant reduction in motor activity.
What factors increase suicide risk in people with schizophrenia?
Young age, male gender, good insight into illness, depression, and recent hospital discharge increase risk.
What’s one reason people stop taking medication?
Side effects, poor insight, or lack of support.