A patient recently diagnosed with schizophrenia exhibits a range of symptoms. The healthcare team is discussing the patient's presentation, specifically noting a lack of motivation and a significant decrease in emotional responsiveness. Which of the following symptoms would be categorized as a negative symptom of schizophrenia?
Show answer and explanation
The answer
Correct answer: B. A marked reduction in the range and intensity of emotional expression, often referred to as affective flattening.
Tested concept: Schizophrenia and psychosis
Explanation
Negative symptoms of schizophrenia involve the absence or reduction of normal mental functions, behaviors, or emotions. Affective flattening, or a reduction in emotional expression, is a classic example of a negative symptom, alongside avolition (lack of motivation) and alogia (reduced speech).
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