What are "negative symptoms" in schizophrenia?

Negative symptoms in schizophrenia refer to a decrease or loss of normal functions that can significantly impact a person's daily life. These symptoms may include a reduction in emotional expression, lack of motivation, social withdrawal, difficulty experiencing pleasure, and limited verbal communication. Unlike positive symptoms, which represent an excess or distortion of normal functions—such as hallucinations and delusions—negative symptoms take away from a person's ability to function normally in society.

Understanding negative symptoms is crucial as they often present a greater challenge to management and recovery in individuals with schizophrenia. They can contribute to difficulties in social interactions, maintaining employment, and engaging in self-care, making it essential for treatment plans to address these issues effectively.