According to the DSM-5, people must experience two or more of the following symptoms during a 1-month period, with at least one of these being options 1, 2, or 3 (for people with a history of autism spectrum disorder or a communication disorder, 1 or 2 only).
- Delusions
- Hallucinations
- Disorganized speech
- Grossly disorganized or catatonic behaviors
- Negative symptoms
There must be a significant level of dysfunction in one or more major areas (relationships, work, or school) that persists for at least 6 months, which must include at least 1 month of symptoms.
Finally, schizoaffective disorder and depressive or bipolar disorder with psychotic features must be ruled out, and the symptoms must not be attributable to psychoactive substances or medical conditions.