Reduced speech, or alogia, involves speaking less spontaneously or providing unusually brief answers. It concerns the amount and elaboration of communication, rather than necessarily involving incoherent speech. A person may understand a conversation but contribute…Continue Reading
Incoherent speech is communication whose meaning becomes very difficult to understand because words, phrases or sentences do not connect in an intelligible way. Severe examples are sometimes called word salad, although that expression can sound…Continue Reading
Thought blocking is a sudden interruption in the flow of thought or speech. A person may stop mid-sentence and report that the idea has disappeared, even though they intended to continue. The pause can be…Continue Reading
Communication difficulties in schizophrenia can involve expressing ideas, following conversations or interpreting another person’s meaning. Formal thought disorder is one contributor, but attention problems, reduced speech, anxiety, hearing difficulties and medication-related sedation can also matter.…Continue Reading
Sequencing is the ability to organise individual steps into an effective order. Preparing a meal, taking public transport or paying a bill requires holding a goal in mind and moving through several actions. During disorganisation…Continue Reading
Behaviour may appear unpredictable when a person’s actions change abruptly or do not seem connected to the situation. They may stop an activity, leave unexpectedly or react to an experience others cannot perceive. From the…Continue Reading
An inappropriate response is one that appears mismatched to the situation, such as laughing during a serious discussion or showing little visible reaction to important news. The mismatch may reflect disorganisation, an internally experienced event…Continue Reading
Referential delusions involve believing that ordinary events carry a special meaning directed at oneself. A television presenter may seem to be speaking personally to the viewer, or a song, advertisement or stranger’s gesture may be…Continue Reading
Disrupted self-care can involve difficulties with washing, dressing, meals, household tasks or attending to physical health. In schizophrenia, several factors may contribute: disorganisation, reduced motivation, depression, suspicious beliefs, cognitive impairment or adverse medication effects. Limited…Continue Reading
Delusions can concern the body, relationships, identity or the control of thoughts. Somatic delusions involve fixed beliefs about bodily illness or alteration. Jealous delusions concern a partner’s supposed infidelity despite inadequate evidence. Erotomanic delusions involve…Continue Reading