Which disorder is commonly associated with psychotic or thought disturbances?

Schizophrenia is a disorder that is specifically characterized by significant psychotic or thought disturbances. Individuals with schizophrenia may experience hallucinations, delusions, disorganized thinking, and a lack of insight into their condition. These symptoms can severely impair a person's ability to function in daily life and can lead to difficulties in relationships, employment, and self-care.

While disorders like depression, anxiety disorders, and post-traumatic stress disorder can involve changes in thought patterns or mood, they do not typically manifest with the same level of psychotic symptoms as schizophrenia. For example, depression can involve feelings of hopelessness and worthlessness, but it does not inherently include hallucinations or delusions. Anxiety disorders primarily involve excessive worry and fear without the presence of psychosis. Post-traumatic stress disorder may lead to intrusive memories or flashbacks, but these are different from the psychotic symptoms seen in schizophrenia.

Thus, the defining characteristics of schizophrenia make it the most accurate choice for a disorder associated with psychotic or thought disturbances.