Negative symptoms are characterized by thoughts, behaviors, or perceptions that are:

Negative symptoms in the context of mental health, particularly in disorders such as schizophrenia, are indeed characterized by an absence or marked reduction in certain functions that are typically present in healthy individuals. This includes a lack of emotional expression, social withdrawal, and a diminished ability to engage in daily activities or care for oneself.

The essence of negative symptoms lies in what is lacking; for instance, an individual may exhibit reduced facial expressions, a lack of motivation, or diminished interest in social relationships. These symptoms stand in contrast to positive symptoms, which are characterized by the presence of abnormal thoughts or behaviors.

The other choices, while they describe certain psychological phenomena, do not align with the definition of negative symptoms. Excess of normal function, distortion of perceptions, or overly emotional responses represent a different spectrum of symptoms that are typically associated with positive symptoms or other mental health issues. Understanding negative symptoms as those that reflect diminished capabilities is crucial in diagnosing and providing effective treatment for affected individuals.