3 Ways to Test for Schizophrenia

1. Observe the Subject for Unusual Behavior

The initial testing for schizophrenic behavior is easy, as the person with schizophrenia will display several odd behaviors. Delusions are one symptom of schizophrenia, and a person with this symptom will begin to act on the belief that he is someone important or famous. He may also suffer delusions of persecution, believing that everyone is out to get him.

Another behavioral symptom found in many schizophrenics is hallucinations, in which the person can see and hear things that don't exist. Some schizophrenics have also reported smelling scents no one else can smell and being touched when no one is touching them.

The final test to run on the person is to find out whether he has trouble thinking or moving. Requesting someone to defend his point of view on something is effective, as it will require him to create an argument, which is very difficult for schizophrenics.

2. Eliminate any Medical Cause for the Symptoms

After determining that the person is displaying the symptoms of schizophrenia, take her to undergo a physical test. This will include a standard physical examination in which her vital signs will be measured and her blood tested for alcohol and drug use. Several drugs have side effects that can resemble the symptoms of schizophrenia, and all those must be ruled out before treating the person for a mental disorder. The doctor performing the tests may have the person get a CT scan or an MRI scan.

3. Consult the Book

Once any obvious physical cause has been eliminated, a trained psychologist should administer questionnaires, interview and observe the person. This may take more than one visit, and require friends and family of the person to provide accounts of schizophrenic behavior. After the symptoms have been compared to those in the "Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, Fourth Edition," the psychologist should be able to determine what type of schizophrenia the person has. The five categories are undifferentiated, disorganized, catatonic, residual and paranoid.