What Are the Cognitive Symptoms of Schizophrenia?
The following cognitive symptoms are associated with schizophrenia.
Memory Problems
“Memory issues can manifest as difficulties recalling recent events (short-term memory) or remembering information from the past (long-term memory),” says Joel Frank, PsyD, a clinical neuropsychologist in private practice in Los Angeles. “Everyday tasks such as remembering appointments, finding items, or following instructions can become challenging.”
Attention Deficits
“These difficulties could involve struggles maintaining focus on tasks or conversations, being easily distracted, or having trouble shifting attention from one task to another,” says Dr. Frank.
Impaired Social Cognition
Social cognition refers to our ability to interpret social cues, understand the perspectives of others, and respond appropriately to social situations, says Frank. “Schizophrenia can affect this ability, leading to misinterpretations of others’ intentions or difficulties in managing social interactions,” he says.
Impaired Executive Functioning
“Executive functions refer to a set of cognitive processes that include problem-solving, planning, organizing, and decision-making,” says Frank. “Schizophrenia can impact these abilities, making it harder for individuals to plan their day, make decisions, or solve problems.”
Language Difficulties
Some people with schizophrenia may speak very little, even when forced to interact with others. They may also speak in a monotonous tone or have trouble organizing their thoughts and words in a way that makes sense to others. This can sometimes result in jumbled speech.
Concentration Issues
“Concentrating for extended periods can be particularly challenging for people with schizophrenia,” Frank says. “They may find it hard to engage in activities that require sustained mental effort, such as reading, studying, or even watching a movie.”