Psychology MCAT Practice Exam

What can affect cognitive symptoms in schizophrenia?

1. Increased social interaction

2. Neurological downtime

3. Genetic predisposition and environmental factors

4. Excessive medication intake

The correct answer is: Genetic predisposition and environmental factors

Cognitive symptoms in schizophrenia can be influenced significantly by both genetic predisposition and environmental factors. Genetic predisposition refers to the inherited traits that increase the likelihood of developing schizophrenia, including certain genetic markers. Environmental factors, on the other hand, encompass a wide range of influences such as prenatal exposure to infections, psychosocial stressors, and substance abuse, which can exacerbate or trigger cognitive symptoms in individuals with a predisposition for the disorder. This interplay between genetics and environment contributes to the variability of cognitive symptoms observed in individuals with schizophrenia. For instance, some individuals might display severe cognitive deficits due to a combination of their genetic makeup and adverse environmental experiences, while others with similar genetic backgrounds may experience milder cognitive dysfunction if their environmental influences are less impactful. In contrast, increased social interaction generally tends to have a positive effect on cognitive functioning by promoting engagement and support, rather than negatively affecting cognitive symptoms. Neurological downtime does not specifically correlate with cognitive symptoms in schizophrenia; rather, it typically refers to periods of inactivity in brain function that are not direct indicators of cognitive decline in this disorder. Excessive medication intake can lead to side effects that may impair cognitive function, yet the overall influence of medication is primarily aimed at managing symptoms rather than being a direct cause of changes