5D - schizophrenia + the 'two hit' hypothesis

Question 1

‘Two hit’ hypothesis

Answer 1

Used to explain how schizophrenia is a result of the combination of both genetic + environmental factors.
(environmental interacts with vulnerability caused by first hit - causes onset of schiz).

Question 2

What are the two hits?

Answer 2

• Genetiv vulnerability.
• Environmental influences/stressors.

Question 3

Hit 1: genetic vulnerability

Answer 3

• Genetically determined vulnerability.
• Eg. biological relative has disorder.

Question 4

Hit 2: environmental influences/stressors

Answer 4

• Significant environmental stressor.
• Eg. major stressful life event, substance use, family stress, abuse, trauma.

Question 5

Schizophrenia

Answer 5

A psychotic disorder characterised by long-term psychosis and impairment to function.

Question 6

S - biological risk factors

Answer 6

• Genetic links.
• Brain structure + function.
• Reduced activity in prefrontal cortex (decisions making etc).
• Less grey matter in frontal + temporal lobes (speech, thinking, emotions).
• Lower activity of certain neurotransmitters (dopamine).

Question 7

S - psychological risk factors

Answer 7

• Stress (if already vulnerable to).
• Cognitive impairments (quick decision making, jumping to conclusions).
• Memory problems (short term + episodic memory).

Question 8

S - social risk factors

Answer 8

• Negative family environments.
• Dysfunctional parenting.
• Disturbed family communication styles.
• Parenting style that makes the child feel guilty.
• Stressful life events.

Question 9

Positive symptoms

Answer 9

Adds to typical functioning.

Question 10

S - positive symptoms

Answer 10

• Hallucinations (particularly auditory).
• Delusions.

Question 11

Negative symptoms

Answer 11

Reduces ability to function.

Question 12

S - negative symptoms

Answer 12

• Reduced expression of emotions.
• Disorganised speech.
• Catatonia.
• Social inhibition.
• Avalation (not caring).

Question 13

S - treatment

Answer 13

• Medical
• Psychotherapy (cognitive behaviour therapy).
• Social support.

Question 14

Medical treatment - S

Answer 14

• Not total solution.
• Can reduce some symptoms, especially positive.
• Has side effects and can make patients not want to take medications.

Question 15

Psychotherapy - CBT

Answer 15

• Cognitive behaviour therapy.
• Helps identify + change irrational thought process.

Question 16

Social support

Answer 16

• Provides mutual support + assistance in finding suitable work, accomodation.
• Provides understanding + acceptance from the community.