negative symptoms
Diminished or absent normal functions in psychiatric conditions, particularly schizophrenia, including reduced emotional expression and motivation.
Full Definition
Negative symptoms represent a reduction or absence of normal psychological functions, contrasting with positive symptoms which are excesses or distortions. In schizophrenia, negative symptoms include affective flattening, alogia (poverty of speech), avolition (lack of motivation), anhedonia, and social withdrawal. These symptoms are often more debilitating than positive symptoms and are typically less responsive to traditional antipsychotic medications. Understanding the distinction between positive and negative symptoms is crucial for editors working on psychiatric treatment literature.
Usage
Usage note: Always lowercase when used descriptively; contrast clearly with positive symptoms in clinical writing.
In Context
- "The patient's negative symptoms showed minimal improvement despite optimal antipsychotic dosing." — Psychiatric evaluation
- "Atypical antipsychotics may offer some benefit for negative symptoms compared to conventional agents." — Pharmacotherapy review