What term describes lack of insight in schizophrenia?

• A. Insight
• B. Anosognosia
• C. Denial
• D. Apathy

Answer: (B)

Lack of insight in schizophrenia is termed anosognosia. Insight means being aware of having a mental illness, recognizing its symptoms, and understanding the need for treatment. Anosognosia is a deficit in that self-awareness, so a person may genuinely believe they are healthy or that their experiences aren’t related to illness, even when evidence suggests otherwise. This is different from denial, which is a conscious coping mechanism where someone resists acknowledging reality, and from apathy, which is a decrease in motivation or interest rather than a failure to recognize illness. Anosognosia can make treatment adherence and engagement with care more challenging, and addressing it often requires careful communication, psychoeducation, and involving caregivers.