What are positive symptoms in the context of psychosis?

Positive symptoms in the context of psychosis refer to the presence of behaviors or experiences that are not typically seen in healthy individuals, meaning these symptoms should not be present but are. This category includes hallucinations (sensory perceptions without an external stimulus), delusions (strongly held false beliefs), and disorganized thinking or speech. Such symptoms reflect an excess or distortion of normal functions.

The term "positive" in this context can be confusing as it does not refer to a beneficial aspect but rather indicates the addition of abnormal features to a person's experience. This is a key characteristic of psychotic disorders, where individuals may experience severe disruptions in their perception of reality due to these aberrant symptoms. Understanding this concept is crucial for recognizing the nature of psychotic disorders and effectively guiding treatment and support for affected individuals.