Final answer:
The positive symptom of schizophrenia, characterized by severely disorganized and incomprehensible speech, is known as disorganized speech. It is different from other positive symptoms, such as hallucinations and delusions. So the correct answer is option (A).
Step-by-step explanation:
In schizophrenia, the positive symptom characterized by individuals switching from one topic to another in their speech, severe disorganization, and incomprehensible communication, often answering questions in a very roundabout manner, is known as disorganized speech. Disorganized speech is one of the hallmark symptoms of schizophrenia and makes it difficult for affected individuals to communicate effectively.
The condition can involve tangential or loose associations where the person’s thoughts and speech go off on unrelated tangents. This symptom stands in contrast to the other positive symptoms of schizophrenia, such as hallucinations and delusions, which are characterized by sensing things that are not present and holding false beliefs, respectively.
Affective flattening, anhedonia, and avolition are considered "negative" symptoms, marked by a decrease in the ability to initiate plans, express emotion, or find pleasure in life. While effective treatments for schizophrenia usually involve antipsychotic medications, these primarily address the positive symptoms rather than the negative ones and often require lifelong medication management.