For a diagnosis of schizophrenia, how long must at least one core psychotic symptom persist?

For a diagnosis of schizophrenia, how long must at least one core psychotic symptom persist?

• A. 1 month
• B. 3 months
• C. 6 months
• D. 12 months

Answer: (C)

For a diagnosis of schizophrenia, the DSM-5 specifies that one or more core psychotic symptoms must be present for a significant portion of a one-month period, with a total duration of at least six months of disturbances in functioning. This six-month timeframe includes at least one month of active-phase symptoms, which can include delusions, hallucinations, disorganized speech, or grossly disorganized or catatonic behavior. The necessity of the six-month duration is crucial because it helps to distinguish schizophrenia from other conditions that may present with similar symptoms but do not persist as long. This extended timeframe ensures that the diagnosis reflects a chronic condition rather than a transient reaction or another mental health issue.

For a diagnosis of schizophrenia, the DSM-5 specifies that one or more core psychotic symptoms must be present for a significant portion of a one-month period, with a total duration of at least six months of disturbances in functioning. This six-month timeframe includes at least one month of active-phase symptoms, which can include delusions, hallucinations, disorganized speech, or grossly disorganized or catatonic behavior. The necessity of the six-month duration is crucial because it helps to distinguish schizophrenia from other conditions that may present with similar symptoms but do not persist as long. This extended timeframe ensures that the diagnosis reflects a chronic condition rather than a transient reaction or another mental health issue.