Schizophreniform disorder is characterized by schizophrenia-like symptoms lasting less than how long?

Schizophreniform disorder is characterized by schizophrenia-like symptoms lasting less than how long?

• A. Less than 3 months
• B. Less than 6 months
• C. Less than 9 months
• D. Less than 12 months

Answer: (B)

Schizophreniform disorder is defined by schizophrenia-like symptoms that endure for at least one month but for less than six months. This duration range is what distinguishes it from brief psychotic disorder (less than one month) and from schizophrenia (six months or longer). Therefore, the condition is characterized by symptoms lasting less than six months. If symptoms persist to six months or more, the diagnosis typically shifts to schizophrenia.

Schizophreniform disorder is defined by schizophrenia-like symptoms that endure for at least one month but for less than six months. This duration range is what distinguishes it from brief psychotic disorder (less than one month) and from schizophrenia (six months or longer). Therefore, the condition is characterized by symptoms lasting less than six months. If symptoms persist to six months or more, the diagnosis typically shifts to schizophrenia.