Which condition is characterized by a distorted experience of reality and abnormal social interactions?

Prepare for the EPPP Biological Bases of Behavior Exam with targeted questions and explanations. Enhance your understanding of neuropsychology, pharmacology, and psychophysiology. Dive into the practice quizzes to ace your exam!

The condition characterized by a distorted experience of reality and abnormal social interactions is schizophrenia. This disorder is defined by a range of symptoms, which often include delusions, hallucinations, disorganized thinking, and impaired functioning in social situations. Individuals with schizophrenia may experience a disconnection from reality, which can significantly affect their perception and interactions with others.

The distortions in reality, such as delusions (false beliefs) and hallucinations (seeing or hearing things that aren't present), disrupt a person's ability to engage in typical social interactions, leading to challenges in forming and maintaining relationships. Additionally, the negative symptoms of schizophrenia, such as flat affect, social withdrawal, and lack of motivation, further contribute to abnormal social interactions.

In contrast, depression primarily involves persistent feelings of sadness and loss of interest, while anxiety disorders are marked by excessive fear or worry. Bipolar disorder features mood swings that include depressive and manic episodes but does not typically involve the same level of distortion of reality as seen in schizophrenia.

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