What distinguishes Schizophrenia from other psychotic disorders?

The distinguishing feature of Schizophrenia compared to other psychotic disorders is the requirement of marked impairment in social or occupational functioning for a duration of at least six months. This criterion emphasizes the chronic nature of Schizophrenia, indicating that the disorder not only presents with psychotic symptoms but also leads to significant impairment in daily functioning. This prolonged duration and associated impact on an individual's life are critical elements that help differentiate Schizophrenia from brief psychotic episodes, which may last less than a month, or from mood disorders with psychotic features, where symptoms are typically tied to mood episodes.

Other options reflect aspects that may be present in both Schizophrenia and other psychotic disorders, such as hallucinations and delusions, but they do not serve as distinctive criteria. Schizophrenia's emphasis on persistent functional impairment over an extended time period uniquely characterizes it within the psychotic disorders category.