Which of the following best describes a characteristic of psychotic disorders?

A defining characteristic of psychotic disorders is the presence of delusions and hallucinations. Psychotic disorders involve a disconnection from reality, where individuals may experience profound alterations in thought processes, perceptions, and behavior. Delusions are strongly held false beliefs that are resistant to reason or contradictory evidence, while hallucinations involve sensory experiences (such as seeing or hearing things that are not present) that seem real to the person experiencing them. These features significantly differentiate psychotic disorders from other mental health conditions, making them central to the diagnosis and understanding of these disorders.

In contrast, routine social interactions, touch with reality, and consistent mood stability do not reflect the nature of psychotic disorders. Individuals with psychotic disorders typically struggle with social functioning due to their altered perceptions and beliefs, often finding it challenging to maintain a grasp on reality. Mood stability is also not a feature of psychosis, as individuals can exhibit significant fluctuations in mood, particularly those with co-occurring mood disorders.