Negative symptoms

Negative symptoms are a category of symptoms associated with schizophrenia, but they can also be found in other psychiatric disorders. They are called "negative" because they represent a loss or decrease in feelings or abilities. Unlike positive symptoms, such as hallucinations and delusions, negative symptoms can be more difficult to recognize as part of the disorder.

Definition

Negative symptoms are those that subtract from normal behavior. They include:

• Apathy: Lack of interest, enthusiasm, or concern.
• Anhedonia: Inability to feel pleasure.
• Blunted affect: Reduced expression of emotions.
• Social withdrawal: Avoidance of social interaction.
• Avolition: Lack of motivation or ability to do tasks.

Causes

The exact cause of negative symptoms is unknown, but they are thought to be caused by a combination of genetic, biological, environmental, and psychological factors. They are often associated with a poor response to antipsychotic medication, and can be a significant source of disability.

Treatment

Treatment for negative symptoms often involves a combination of medication, psychotherapy, and social support. Antipsychotic medications can help manage positive symptoms, but they are less effective at treating negative symptoms. Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) and other forms of psychotherapy can help individuals manage their symptoms and improve their quality of life.

See also

• Positive symptoms
• Schizophrenia
• Psychiatric disorders

References

Negative symptoms Resources
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