Symptoms associated with schizophrenia are generally physical or behavioral in nature, yet will cause the sufferer to react in an emotional way. Although there are four types of schizophrenia, these emotional symptoms are generally the same in all types. The number and severity of the symptoms will vary from person to person, however. The most common symptoms are delusions, hallucinations, grandiosity, affective flattening, alogia and avolition.
Delusions and Hallucinations
Schizophrenia is caused by chemical imbalances within the brain. These imbalances cause the person's thinking pattern and senses to function improperly. Delusions and hallucinations are products of the malfunctioning. Delusion is the state of being deluded, or deceived. Hence, delusions are inaccurate thoughts and experiences. The thought that bleach is a bottle of lemonade or you are having eye surgery while walking down the street are examples of delusions. Hallucinations are perceived realities that have no scientific or relevant base, according to Helpguide.org. To look at your neighbor and see an animal instead, or to hear a voice speaking that, in reality, is not speaking, are examples of hallucinations. What is usually witnessed by those observing a person with schizophrenia is the reaction to the delusions and hallucinations, causing the person to feel and then act in a way that does not match what is happening in reality. If your neighbor says "Good morning" and she is seen as a bear, the reaction may be fear or flight instead of a return of the greeting.
Grandiosity
Often, the perceptions of a person with schizophrenia are exaggerated, which is referred to as grandiosity. The perception of a person, situation, experience or his own self seems to be far more than what is real. Therefore, the feelings associated with the person or the situation is an overreaction. A simple scrape on the knee may cause hysteria, or the person might think he is God or an astronaut and actually conduct himself as though he really is. Totally mislead by the effects of the chemical imbalances, the person with schizophrenia is unable to tell the difference between these misconceptions and reality.
Affective Flattening and Alogia
Helpguide.org describes affective flattening as a strong lack of emotional expression. This is noticeable in the person's face, body language and reactions to others. The face shows little to no expression. There may be an occasional smile and display of emotions, however, most of the time the face is unresponsive. Body language is also unresponsive, with the person making poor eye contact and no use of gestures. Another form of this lack of emotional expression is through communication. Referred to as alogia, the speech is monotone, brief and to the point as if there is little to no thought and feeling on the subject. Holding conversations with this person is difficult and there may be times when there is no response at all, regardless of the subject or circumstances.
Avolition
Schizophrenics also express avolition. They have no ambition to become involved in daily activities or to complete a project. This is most noticeable in personal relationships, educational and work experiences. Most schizophrenics never marry. They rarely maintain steady employment if they are able to get work, and have difficulty in school. It is common for them to sit for days or more, with no interest in people, work or social activities.
Inappropriate Affect
Inappropriate affect, a symptom that is more common with a schizophrenic type labeled "Disorganized," causes the person to express inappropriate emotions. It may be a facial expression or a mood. For example, she may laugh in the middle of a sad funeral or smile at someone who is expressing anger towards her. She may make faces or grimaces throughout the day for no apparent reason. Unwarranted feelings of anger or anxiety are also common. If a relative invites her over for a visit, she may severely insult the relative, even is there is no history of animosity between them. Anxiety may be felt during a time someone would usually find routinely calm, such as mealtime or when falling asleep. Depression may occur. This could lead to irregularity in eating and sleeping patterns. An activity that was enjoyable will suddenly hold no interest or pleasure.
References
- "Diagnosis and Statistical Manual of Mental Health"; American Psychiatric Association; 1994
- "Understanding Schizophrenia: Signs, Symptoms, Causes and Effects:; Smith, M.A., Melinda; Kemp, M.A., Gina; Larson, PhD, Heather; Jaffe, PhD, Jaelline; HelpGuide.org; December, 2007
- "The American Heritage Dictionary of the English Language"; Morris, William, editor; Hougton Mifflin Company; 1976
