Which of the following is NOT characterized as a negative symptom of schizophrenia?

In the context of schizophrenia, negative symptoms refer to the absence or reduction of normal emotional and behavioral functions. These symptoms often include diminished emotional expression, lack of motivation, and social withdrawal.

The choice that is correct, delusions, represents a positive symptom of schizophrenia instead. Positive symptoms are those that reflect an excess or distortion of normal functions, such as hallucinations, disorganized thinking, and abnormal behaviors that are not typically present in healthy individuals. Delusions involve false beliefs that are firmly held despite contradictory evidence, which is characteristic of the disorder but not classified under negative symptoms.

In contrast, decreased fluency, social withdrawal, and flat affect all demonstrate a reduction in normal capacities, fitting the criteria for negative symptoms. Decreased fluency refers to a reduced ability to communicate effectively, social withdrawal indicates a lack of interest in social engagements, and flat affect describes a diminished emotional expression. These symptoms can significantly impact a person's ability to function and engage with others, making understanding and identifying them crucial in the context of schizophrenia.