A child with schizophrenia has trouble distinguishing what is real and what is not. Children with this severe chronic brain disorder show many different symptoms reflecting the psychological difficulties they are experiencing.
Considerations
Childhood schizophrenia is rare. Because children commonly have an active fantasy life and go through varying phases of development, schizophrenia symptoms can be hard to identify. Additionally, some childhood schizophrenia symptoms are similar to those of other disorders, such as autism.
Adult versus Childhood Symptoms
Childhood schizophrenia symptoms are similar to those of schizophrenia in adults, but children more often experience auditory hallucinations such as non-existent voices, according to Children's Hospital Boston. They also usually do not develop delusions until the teen years.
Socialization
A child with schizophrenia may become shy and withdrawn, and be unable to make or keep friends. He might become clingy with his parents and be fearful of any other socializing.
Psychological States
The child may display negative psychological states. These might include unexplained agitation, anxiety, lack of emotion or inappropriate emotion, moodiness or violent behavior.
Reality Discernment
Another symptom of childhood schizophrenia is inability to distinguish reality from television shows or dreams.
Unusual Behavior
The child may show odd behavior such as complicated eating rituals or incoherent speech. A previously-good student may begin having serious difficulty with schoolwork.
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