Arizona State University (ASU) PSY366 Abnormal Psychology Exam 1 Practice

Negative symptoms of schizophrenia refer to the absence or reduction of normal emotional and social functioning, which lead to significant impairment in the individual's ability to function in daily life. Reduced emotional expression, often referred to as "flat affect," means that individuals may show diminished facial expressions, voice tone, and gestures associated with emotions. Social withdrawal, where a person isolates themselves from social interactions and relationships, is another hallmark of negative symptoms.

These characteristics distinguish negative symptoms from positive symptoms of schizophrenia, which include hallucinations (perceptions without stimuli) and disorganized behavior, as well as excesses and distortions in normal functioning. Therefore, the correct answer accurately encapsulates the nature of negative symptoms in schizophrenia by focusing on the deficits in emotional and social engagement rather than the presence of additional abnormal experiences or behaviors.