Schizophrenia Spectrum and Other Key Terms
The schizophrenia spectrum refers to a range of psychological disorders characterized by profound disruptions in thinking, perception, emotional responsiveness, and behavior. Schizophrenia, specifically, manifests through positive symptoms (like hallucinations and delusions), negative symptoms (such as lack of emotional expression), and cognitive impairments, impacting an individual’s personal and social functioning.
In addition to schizophrenia, the section provides a classification of various psychological disorders, which are grouped based on shared characteristics to facilitate understanding among mental health professionals. Key terms related to abnormal psychology highlight how societal norms and pressures may define what behaviors are considered acceptable or deviant, stressing the role of cultural contexts in diagnosing and treating mental disorders.
Factors contributing to psychological disorders, including biological, psychological, and socio-cultural elements, are discussed, emphasizing the complexity of understanding mental health. Key disorders such as anxiety, mood disorders, and personality disorders are also briefly reviewed. Overall, this section serves to ground the discussion of schizophrenia within the broader field of psychology, enhancing comprehension of how various disorders influence individual lives.