Psychology MCAT Practice Exam 2026 – Complete All-in-One Guide to Ensure Your Success!

Positive symptoms of schizophrenia are characterized by the presence of abnormal thoughts and behaviors that are not typically seen in the general population. Hallucinations and delusions are prime examples of these symptoms. Hallucinations involve sensory perceptions that occur without an external stimulus, meaning the individual may hear voices or see things that are not there. Delusions are fixed, false beliefs that are resistant to reason or confrontation with actual facts, such as believing that one has exceptional abilities or that one is being persecuted.

These symptoms reflect an excess or distortion of normal function, playing a significant role in the clinical picture of schizophrenia. In contrast, options describing a lack of emotional expression and motivation relate more to negative symptoms, which indicate a reduction or absence of normal emotional response. Impaired memory and attention involve cognitive deficits rather than positive symptoms, and increased sociability and engagement do not align with the characteristics of schizophrenia, which typically entails social withdrawal and dysfunction. Therefore, the presence of hallucinations and delusions distinctly marks the positive symptoms associated with this condition.