Which of the following is classified as a negative symptom of schizophrenia?

Diminished speech output is indeed classified as a negative symptom of schizophrenia. In the context of schizophrenia, negative symptoms refer to a reduction or absence of normal emotional functioning and behaviors. These can manifest as a lack of motivation, diminished emotional expression, and decreased social engagement.

Diminished speech output, also known as alogia, indicates a reduction in the quantity or content of speech. This symptom can significantly impact interpersonal interactions and communication for individuals with schizophrenia, leading to social withdrawal or isolation.

In this context, options that reference other symptoms don’t align with the definition of negative symptoms. For example, decreased reactivity to the environment can be related to negative symptoms, as it may reflect a lack of emotional engagement but does not fit as clearly as diminished speech output. Displaying childlike silliness, on the other hand, could be viewed more as a disorganized behavior rather than a negative symptom. Lastly, loosening of associations relates to thought disorder, indicating difficulties in maintaining a logical or coherent flow of thoughts, which is a positive symptom rather than negative.

By understanding diminished speech output as a negative symptom, one can appreciate the impact of schizophrenia on communication and social functioning.