Final answer:
A reduction in normal behaviors, such as reduced emotional responsiveness, is called negative symptoms, often linked to conditions like schizophrenia. These symptoms are a sign of diminished functionality, in contrast to the active manifestations labeled as positive symptoms.
Step-by-step explanation:
A reduction in normal behaviors, such as reduced emotional responsiveness, is called negative symptoms. These symptoms are often associated with schizophrenic disorders and are indicative of a diminished capacity to function in daily life. Unlike positive symptoms that involve the presence of abnormal behaviors, negative symptoms denote the absence of normal behaviors, and may include a lack of emotion, reduced social engagement, and loss of motivation. An example of negative symptoms could manifest as a person showing little interest in social activities, having flat affect, or displaying an inability to experience pleasure, which is known as anhedonia.
Conditions that involve impaired social skills, repetitive motor behaviors, or preoccupation with specific subjects might warrant testing for autism spectrum disorder, especially if a child is showing such signs. Learning about cognitive impairments, such as those seen in schizophrenia or Parkinson's disease, is crucial for identifying and treating these disorders effectively.