PQ16

Are your thoughts playing tricks on you?

The Prodromal Questionnaire (PQ-16) is a validated 16-item screening tool for unusual perceptual experiences and early psychotic symptoms. It takes ~5 minutes and was developed for use in general and clinical populations (Ising et al., 2012).

⏱ 5 min ❓ 16 questions ✓ 100% Free
▶ Start Free Test
🔒 No sign-up · Instant results · Science-based · Secure payment
🔬 Psychosis Risk Screening (PQ-16)
▶ Start Test Now
Download sample PDF →
⚠️ Disclaimer: This is a screening tool, NOT a diagnosis. A high score does not mean you have or will develop schizophrenia. Many people in the general population experience these phenomena occasionally without any clinical significance. Only a qualified mental health professional can diagnose a psychotic disorder. If your score is elevated or you are distressed by these experiences, please consult a psychiatrist or psychologist.
Claude AI
AI Interpretation powered by Claude (Anthropic)
claude-sonnet-4-20250514
Your results are analyzed by Claude, Anthropic's AI model, which provides a personalized narrative explaining what your answers reveal about your profile, with practical recommendations and professional guidance.

📋 What to expect

Answer honestly There are no right or wrong answers
Take your time Read each question carefully before answering
AI interpretation Claude AI will analyze and explain your results
PDF Report Get a full PDF report of your results

What is the PQ-16?

The PQ-16 (Prodromal Questionnaire) is a brief screening tool for unusual experiences that are sometimes associated with a higher risk of psychosis. It explores strange perceptions, intrusive thoughts or a sense of suspicion or unreality. These experiences are in fact more common in the general population than people assume.

Why it matters

Spotting unusual experiences early allows, if needed, gentle and timely support. It is important to remember that having these experiences does not mean you will develop a disorder: many people experience them briefly, especially during periods of stress or fatigue.

About this test

This test is free, fast and confidential. It is only a screening tool, never a diagnosis, and a high score does not predict an illness. If these experiences worry you, distress you or disrupt your daily life, please talk to a mental health professional or reach out to a support line.