Thought broadcasting is a positive symptom of schizophrenia in the diagnostic process undertaken by mental health professionals.[1] Thought broadcasting has been suggested as one of the so-called "first rank symptoms" (Schneider's first-rank symptoms) believed to distinguish schizophrenia from other psychotic disorders.
During thought broadcasting people describe their thoughts being broadcast, or available, to others. This is a passive process and not something the person can control. It is different from people being able to read their thoughts in that when thoughts are being broadcast they are available to anybody. To exemplify, thought broadcast can be compared to radio transmitting as opposed to telephone connections. Note there is no implication that their thoughts are being heard.
In mild manifestations, a person with this thought disorder may doubt their perception of thought broadcasting. Infrequent instances are considered to be mild. When thought broadcasting occurs on a regular basis, the disorder begins to affect behavior and interferes with the person's ability to function in society. This is considered to be a severe manifestation of thought broadcasting that is usually indicative of schizophrenia.[2]