Texas Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA)

Which brain disorder affects a person's ability to think clearly and understand reality?

1. Anxiety disorders

2. Depression

3. Schizophrenia

4. Bipolar disorder

The correct answer is: Schizophrenia

Schizophrenia is a serious mental disorder that profoundly impacts a person's ability to think clearly, make decisions, and understand reality. Individuals with schizophrenia often experience symptoms such as delusions and hallucinations, which can distort their perception of reality and result in significant cognitive impairment. This can lead to challenges in social functioning and personal relationships, as their understanding and interpretation of the world around them may be significantly altered. In contrast, anxiety disorders primarily involve excessive worry and fear, which can affect concentration but do not typically alter a person's understanding of reality. Depression, while it can impair cognitive function and decision-making, does not usually include the profound disconnect from reality seen in schizophrenia. Bipolar disorder is characterized by mood swings, including episodes of mania and depression, and while it can affect a person's thought processes during these episodes, it does not typically create the persistent reality disconnect that is hallmark of schizophrenia.