Registered Practical Nurse (RPN) Practice Test

One key difference between schizoaffective disorder and schizophrenia is that schizoaffective disorder is described as?

1. Chronic

2. Episodic

3. Consistent

4. Acute

The correct answer is: Episodic

Schizoaffective disorder is characterized as episodic, meaning that individuals experience distinct episodes of mood disturbances alongside symptoms of schizophrenia, such as hallucinations or delusions. This episodic nature allows for periods of relative stability or absence of symptoms, which can contrast with the more persistent and chronic symptoms seen in schizophrenia alone. In schizoaffective disorder, the mood episodes (which can be depressive or manic) intermingle with psychotic symptoms, creating a pattern that is not constant or consistent but rather occurs in episodes. This distinction emphasizes the fluctuating nature of schizoaffective disorder, as opposed to the more stable and enduring symptoms typically present in schizophrenia. In comparison, chronic refers to a long-lasting and persistent condition, consistent suggests uniformity without variation, and acute often relates to a sudden onset of symptoms rather than the recurring nature of episodes.