What psychological disorder is characterized by delusions and hallucinations?

The psychological disorder characterized by delusions and hallucinations is schizophrenia. This condition is primarily marked by significant disruptions in thinking, perception, emotions, language, and sense of self. Individuals with schizophrenia often experience delusions, which are false beliefs that are resistant to reason or confrontation with actual facts. Hallucinations, particularly auditory ones (such as hearing voices), are also a common symptom, where the person perceives something that is not present in reality.

Understanding these symptoms is crucial as they distinguish schizophrenia from other psychological conditions. For instance, depression primarily affects mood, and while it can involve distorted thinking, it does not typically manifest with delusions or hallucinations. Bipolar disorder involves mood swings that can include depressive episodes and manic phases but is not defined by the presence of psychotic symptoms like those seen in schizophrenia. Generalized Anxiety Disorder is characterized by excessive worry and anxiety about various aspects of life, lacking the psychotic features characteristic of schizophrenia. This makes it clear why schizophrenia is the appropriate answer in this context.