Which type of schizophrenia is characterized by predominant negative symptoms?

The type of schizophrenia characterized by predominant negative symptoms is residual schizophrenia. Residual schizophrenia is identified by a history of at least one episode of schizophrenia, during which positive symptoms such as hallucinations or delusions may have been prominent, but currently, the individual mostly exhibits negative symptoms. Negative symptoms include deficits in functioning, such as lack of motivation, blunted affect, social withdrawal, and reduced emotional expression.

Individuals with residual schizophrenia often have minimal or no positive symptoms, reflecting the chronic nature of their condition and a significant impact on their ability to engage in daily activities. This distinguishes it from other forms of schizophrenia, which may present more prominently with either positive or disorganized features.

This understanding of negative symptoms in residual schizophrenia aligns with the broader framework of schizophrenia types, where other categories are often more associated with positive symptoms or specific behavioral disorganization.