Negative signs and symptoms are used to distinguish schizophrenia from other psychosis causes.

The statement is accurate because negative signs and symptoms are indeed crucial for distinguishing schizophrenia from other causes of psychosis. In the context of schizophrenia, negative symptoms refer to a reduction or absence of normal emotional and behavioral functions. These may include lack of motivation, diminished emotional expression, social withdrawal, and decreased ability to experience pleasure.

These negative symptoms are specific to schizophrenia and help clinicians differentiate it from other psychotic disorders, where symptoms may be more focused on positive symptoms, such as hallucinations or delusions. In other forms of psychosis—like those associated with substance use or mood disorders—the symptom profiles differ primarily in the presence or severity of negative functioning. Therefore, recognizing and understanding the negative signs and symptoms is essential in accurately diagnosing schizophrenia and tailoring appropriate treatment strategies.