A nurse is reviewing the DSM-5 diagnostic criteria for schizophrenia. Which of the following symptoms must be present for a client to be diagnosed with schizophrenia? (Select All that Apply.)
Explanation & Rationale
Choice A reason: Antisocial personality is a separate disorder and not part of schizophrenia diagnostic criteria. Choice B reason: Inability to initiate activities reflects avolition, a negative symptom of schizophrenia. It is part of the diagnostic criteria. Choice C reason: Disorganized behavior is a hallmark of schizophrenia, reflecting impaired executive functioning and inability to perform daily tasks. Choice D reason: Impaired interpersonal relationships are a consequence of schizophrenia but not a core diagnostic criterion. They result from symptoms rather than define the disorder. Choice E reason: Lack of emotional expression (flat affect) is a negative symptom of schizophrenia and part of the diagnostic criteria. Choice F reason: Hallucinations, particularly auditory, are positive symptoms and central to the diagnosis of schizophrenia.