Which gender's symptoms may precede psychosis?

• A. Women
• B. Men
• C. Both equally
• D. Neither

Answer: (B)

The main idea is that there is a prodromal period before psychosis in schizophrenia, and patterns of onset can differ by gender. Men tend to experience the onset earlier (late teens to early 20s), so subtle, preceding signs—such as declining functioning, social withdrawal, reduced motivation, and odd ideas—are more likely to be observed in men before full psychosis develops. Women typically have a later onset (often late 20s to 30s) and their prodromal phase can be less conspicuous or intertwined with mood symptoms, making the preceding signs less consistently recognized. Because the earlier onset and prodromal signs are more commonly seen in men, this option is the best answer.