What is the duration criterion for schizophrenia in DSM-5?

• A. At least 6 months of continuous signs including prodromal or residual symptoms with functional decline.
• B. At least 1 month.
• C. At least 2 weeks.
• D. At least 1 year.

Answer: (A)

The duration for schizophrenia in DSM-5 is six months or longer. The best answer states at least six months of continuous signs, and it allows for prodromal or residual symptoms as long as there is a clear decline in functioning. Within that six-month window, there must be at least one month of active-phase symptoms (such as delusions, hallucinations, disorganized speech, disorganized or catatonic behavior, or negative symptoms). This combination ensures the pattern is persistent and impairing, not a brief episode. It also distinguishes schizophrenia from other disorders with shorter durations, like schizophreniform disorder, which covers 1–6 months.