Final answer:
Conventional antipsychotics can effectively target symptoms of psychosis such as delusions, unwanted thoughts, and agitation. However, they may have limited effectiveness in reducing flat affect.
Step-by-step explanation:
Conventional (first-generation) antipsychotics are medications used to manage psychosis, primarily in schizophrenia and other psychotic disorders. These antipsychotics work by blocking dopamine receptors and decreasing dopamine neurotransmission in the brain. Delusions, unwanted thoughts, and agitation are symptoms of psychosis that can be effectively targeted by conventional antipsychotics. These medications help reduce the intensity and frequency of delusions, control unwanted thoughts, and alleviate agitation in patients. However, conventional antipsychotics may have limited effectiveness in reducing flat affect, which is characterized by a lack of emotional expression or a diminished range of emotions. Other treatment approaches, such as psychotherapy or newer atypical antipsychotics, may be more beneficial in addressing this symptom.