There are different types of schizophrenia, each with particular symptoms. In general, the following are some characteristics of schizophrenia:
• Hallucinations (something a person sees, hears, smells, or feels that no one else can see, hear, smell, or feel). "Voices are the most common type of hallucination in schizophrenia
• Delusions (false personal beliefs) that are not part of the person's culture and do not change, even when other people present proof that the beliefs are not true or logical
• Disordered thinking (unusual thought processes)
• Movement disorders. People with schizophrenia can be clumsy and uncoordinated. They may also exhibit involuntary movements and may grimace or exhibit unusual mannerisms. They may repeat certain motions over and over or, in extreme cases, may become catatonic.
• Flat emotions (immobile facial expression, monotonous voice)
• Social withdrawal (lack of pleasure in everyday life, difficulty starting or continuing planned activities, speaking infrequently, even when forced to interact)
• Difficulty thinking clearly, delusions and hallucinations often interfere with the person's ability to lead a normal life and earn a living. They can cause great emotional distress.
