Which of the following is a characteristic symptom of psychotic disorders?

A characteristic symptom of psychotic disorders is poor impulse control, which often manifests as a diminished ability to regulate one's thoughts, emotions, and behaviors. This can lead to erratic or unusual responses to situations, making it challenging for individuals to maintain appropriate social conduct or make reasoned decisions.

In psychotic disorders, individuals may experience altered perceptions of reality, which can include hallucinations or delusions. These symptoms can significantly impact their judgment and emotional responses, further contributing to poor impulse control. For instance, someone experiencing a psychotic episode may act on impulses without considering the consequences, leading to behaviors that are out of character and potentially harmful.

The other choices reflect characteristics that are not typical of psychotic disorders. Heightened creativity can be observed in some individuals but isn't a defining symptom of psychosis. Excessive rational thinking is generally not associated with the disorganized thought patterns common in these disorders. Normal perception of reality directly contradicts the very nature of psychotic disorders, which involve disruptions in the individual's understanding and interpretation of reality. Thus, poor impulse control stands out as a defining characteristic symptom in this context.