Per DSM-5, at least one of the following has to be present to diagnose schizophrenia except
Hallucinations
Delusions
Disorganized speech
Negative symptoms
The Correct Answer is D
A. Hallucinations are a core positive symptom of schizophrenia and involve false sensory perceptions without an external stimulus (e.g., hearing voices, seeing things that are not there). According to the DSM-5, hallucinations are one of the three essential symptoms that must be present for a diagnosis.
B. Delusions are fixed, false beliefs that persist despite evidence to the contrary (e.g., persecutory delusions, grandiose delusions). Delusions are a hallmark symptom of schizophrenia and are required as a diagnostic criterion if present.
C. Disorganized speech reflects disorganized thinking, a key symptom of schizophrenia. It includes incoherence, tangentiality, and word salad, demonstrating the cognitive dysfunction associated with the disorder. If disorganized speech is present, it fulfils one of the primary diagnostic criteria.
D. Negative symptoms such as avolition, anhedonia, alogia, and flat affect, are common in schizophrenia but are not required for diagnosis. According to the DSM-5, at least one of the following three symptoms hallucinations, delusions, or disorganized speech must be present to meet the diagnostic criteria for schizophrenia.
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Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
A. Delusions are a positive symptom of schizophrenia, not a negative symptom. They are false, fixed beliefs that persist despite evidence to the contrary. Common types include persecutory, grandiose, and bizarre delusions. Positive symptoms result from excess dopamine activity in the mesolimbic pathway.
B. Avolition is a negative symptom characterized by a lack of motivation to initiate and sustain goal-directed activities. It leads to difficulties with personal hygiene, work, and social engagement, significantly impairing daily functioning.
C. Apathy is a negative symptom marked by a lack of interest, enthusiasm, or emotional responsiveness. Individuals with schizophrenia may show indifference to social interactions, personal achievements, or daily activities.
D. Alogia (poverty of speech) is a negative symptom where individuals speak less and provide minimal verbal responses. This reflects impaired thought processing and reduced cognitive engagement, common in schizophrenia's mesocortical dopamine pathway dysfunction.
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
A. Fear of rejection. Individuals with avoidant personality disorder (AVPD) have an intense fear of rejection or criticism, leading them to avoid social situations, relationships, and new experiences despite wanting social connection. This fear stems from deep feelings of inadequacy.
B. Jealous of others. Jealousy is not a defining trait of AVPD but is more commonly associated with narcissistic or borderline personality disorders. People with AVPD are more self-critical and insecure rather than envious of others’ success or relationships.
C. Afraid to make new relationships. Those with AVPD struggle to form new relationships due to fear of embarrassment, criticism, or social failure. They often require strong reassurance and validation before feeling comfortable in social settings.
D. Avoids social interactions. Avoidance of social interactions is a hallmark of AVPD, as individuals tend to withdraw from work, friendships, and social activities to protect themselves from perceived humiliation or failure.
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