What is the main use of the Positive and Negative Symptoms Scale (PANSS)?

The Positive and Negative Symptoms Scale (PANSS) is primarily used for the assessment of the severity of symptoms in schizophrenia. It is a clinical tool specifically designed to measure the severity of positive symptoms, such as delusions and hallucinations, as well as negative symptoms, such as emotional flatness and lack of motivation. The scale provides healthcare professionals with a structured way to evaluate symptom dimensions and track changes over time, which is essential for effective treatment planning and intervention.

While the PANSS is not primarily focused on overall patient function, treatment adherence, or acute stress responses, its detailed measurement of symptoms allows clinicians to gauge the effectiveness of therapies aimed at addressing psychotic symptoms. This tool is vital in both research and clinical settings for monitoring the progression of schizophrenia and tailoring individualized treatment approaches based on symptom severity.