6.6: The importance of the interactionist approach in explaining and treating schizophrenia

Question 1

Describe and evaluate the interactionist approach to both explaining and treating schizophrenia (16 marks)

Answer 1

The interactionist approach, also called the biosocial approach, is an approach that acknowledges that there are biological (for example genetic vulnerability), psychological (for example stress) and societal factors in the development of schizophrenia

Question 2

Describe and evaluate the interactionist approach to both explaining and treating schizophrenia (16 marks).
The interactionist approach, also called the biosocial approach, is an approach that acknowledges that there are biological (for example genetic vulnerability), psychological (for example stress) and societal factors in the development of schizophrenia.
The diathesis-stress model

Answer 2

The diathesis-stress model says that both a vulnerability to schizophrenia and a stress-trigger are necessary in order to develop the condition.
One or more underlying factors make a person particularly vulnerably to developing schizophrenia, but the onset of the condition is triggered by stress

Question 3

Describe and evaluate the interactionist approach to both explaining and treating schizophrenia (16 marks).
The interactionist approach, also called the biosocial approach, is an approach that acknowledges that there are biological (for example genetic vulnerability), psychological (for example stress) and societal factors in the development of schizophrenia.
The diathesis-stress model says that both a vulnerability to schizophrenia and a stress-trigger are necessary in order to develop the condition.
One or more underlying factors make a person particularly vulnerably to developing schizophrenia, but the onset of the condition is triggered by stress.
In the original diathesis-stress model (Meehl, 1962),

Answer 3

In the original diathesis-stress model (Meehl, 1962), diathesis (vulnerability) was entirely genetic, the result of a single ‘schizogene’

Question 4

Describe and evaluate the interactionist approach to both explaining and treating schizophrenia (16 marks).
The interactionist approach, also called the biosocial approach, is an approach that acknowledges that there are biological (for example genetic vulnerability), psychological (for example stress) and societal factors in the development of schizophrenia.
The diathesis-stress model says that both a vulnerability to schizophrenia and a stress-trigger are necessary in order to develop the condition.
One or more underlying factors make a person particularly vulnerably to developing schizophrenia, but the onset of the condition is triggered by stress.
In the original diathesis-stress model (Meehl, 1962), diathesis (vulnerability) was entirely genetic, the result of a single ‘schizogene.’
What did this lead to?

Answer 4

This led to the development of a biologically based schizotypic personality, one characteristic of which is sensitivity to stress

Question 5

Describe and evaluate the interactionist approach to both explaining and treating schizophrenia (16 marks).
The interactionist approach, also called the biosocial approach, is an approach that acknowledges that there are biological (for example genetic vulnerability), psychological (for example stress) and societal factors in the development of schizophrenia.
The diathesis-stress model says that both a vulnerability to schizophrenia and a stress-trigger are necessary in order to develop the condition.
One or more underlying factors make a person particularly vulnerably to developing schizophrenia, but the onset of the condition is triggered by stress.
In the original diathesis-stress model (Meehl, 1962), diathesis (vulnerability) was entirely genetic, the result of a single ‘schizogene.’
This led to the development of a biologically based schizotypic personality, one characteristic of which is sensitivity to stress.
According to Meehl,

Answer 5

According to Meehl, if a person does not have the schizogene, then no amount of stress would lead to schizophrenia, but in carriers of the gene, chronic stress through childhood and adolescence, in particular the presence of a schizophrenogenic mother, could result in the development of the condition

Question 6

Describe and evaluate the interactionist approach to both explaining and treating schizophrenia (16 marks).
The interactionist approach, also called the biosocial approach, is an approach that acknowledges that there are biological (for example genetic vulnerability), psychological (for example stress) and societal factors in the development of schizophrenia.
The diathesis-stress model says that both a vulnerability to schizophrenia and a stress-trigger are necessary in order to develop the condition.
One or more underlying factors make a person particularly vulnerably to developing schizophrenia, but the onset of the condition is triggered by stress.
In the original diathesis-stress model (Meehl, 1962), diathesis (vulnerability) was entirely genetic, the result of a single ‘schizogene.’
This led to the development of a biologically based schizotypic personality, one characteristic of which is sensitivity to stress.
According to Meehl, if a person does not have the schizogene, then no amount of stress would lead to schizophrenia, but in carriers of the gene, chronic stress through childhood and adolescence, in particular the presence of a schizophrenogenic mother, could result in the development of the condition.

First AO3 PEEL paragraph

Answer 6

The first AO3 PEEL paragraph is that there is research support for the dual role of vulnerability and stress in the development of schizophrenia

Question 7

Describe and evaluate the interactionist approach to both explaining and treating schizophrenia (16 marks).
The interactionist approach, also called the biosocial approach, is an approach that acknowledges that there are biological (for example genetic vulnerability), psychological (for example stress) and societal factors in the development of schizophrenia.
The diathesis-stress model says that both a vulnerability to schizophrenia and a stress-trigger are necessary in order to develop the condition.
One or more underlying factors make a person particularly vulnerably to developing schizophrenia, but the onset of the condition is triggered by stress.
In the original diathesis-stress model (Meehl, 1962), diathesis (vulnerability) was entirely genetic, the result of a single ‘schizogene.’
This led to the development of a biologically based schizotypic personality, one characteristic of which is sensitivity to stress.
According to Meehl, if a person does not have the schizogene, then no amount of stress would lead to schizophrenia, but in carriers of the gene, chronic stress through childhood and adolescence, in particular the presence of a schizophrenogenic mother, could result in the development of the condition.

The first AO3 PEEL paragraph is that there is research support for the dual role of vulnerability and stress in the development of schizophrenia.
Example

Answer 7

For example, Tienari et al. (2004) investigated the combination of genetic vulnerability and parenting style (the trigger).
Children adopted from 19,000 Finnish mothers with schizophrenia between 1960 and 1979 were followed up.
Tienari found that a child-rearing style characterised by high levels of criticism and conflict and low levels of empathy was implicated in the development of schizophrenia, but for the children with a high genetic risk only

Question 8

Describe and evaluate the interactionist approach to both explaining and treating schizophrenia (16 marks).
The interactionist approach, also called the biosocial approach, is an approach that acknowledges that there are biological (for example genetic vulnerability), psychological (for example stress) and societal factors in the development of schizophrenia.
The diathesis-stress model says that both a vulnerability to schizophrenia and a stress-trigger are necessary in order to develop the condition.
One or more underlying factors make a person particularly vulnerably to developing schizophrenia, but the onset of the condition is triggered by stress.
In the original diathesis-stress model (Meehl, 1962), diathesis (vulnerability) was entirely genetic, the result of a single ‘schizogene.’
This led to the development of a biologically based schizotypic personality, one characteristic of which is sensitivity to stress.
According to Meehl, if a person does not have the schizogene, then no amount of stress would lead to schizophrenia, but in carriers of the gene, chronic stress through childhood and adolescence, in particular the presence of a schizophrenogenic mother, could result in the development of the condition.

The first AO3 PEEL paragraph is that there is research support for the dual role of vulnerability and stress in the development of schizophrenia.
For example, Tienari et al. (2004) investigated the combination of genetic vulnerability and parenting style (the trigger).
Children adopted from 19,000 Finnish mothers with schizophrenia between 1960 and 1979 were followed up.
Tienari found that a child-rearing style characterised by high levels of criticism and conflict and low levels of empathy was implicated in the development of schizophrenia, but for the children with a high genetic risk only.
What does this suggest?

Answer 8

This suggests that both genetic vulnerability and family-related stress are important in the development of schizophrenia

Question 9

Describe and evaluate the interactionist approach to both explaining and treating schizophrenia (16 marks).
The interactionist approach, also called the biosocial approach, is an approach that acknowledges that there are biological (for example genetic vulnerability), psychological (for example stress) and societal factors in the development of schizophrenia.
The diathesis-stress model says that both a vulnerability to schizophrenia and a stress-trigger are necessary in order to develop the condition.
One or more underlying factors make a person particularly vulnerably to developing schizophrenia, but the onset of the condition is triggered by stress.
In the original diathesis-stress model (Meehl, 1962), diathesis (vulnerability) was entirely genetic, the result of a single ‘schizogene.’
This led to the development of a biologically based schizotypic personality, one characteristic of which is sensitivity to stress.
According to Meehl, if a person does not have the schizogene, then no amount of stress would lead to schizophrenia, but in carriers of the gene, chronic stress through childhood and adolescence, in particular the presence of a schizophrenogenic mother, could result in the development of the condition.

The first AO3 PEEL paragraph is that there is research support for the dual role of vulnerability and stress in the development of schizophrenia.
For example, Tienari et al. (2004) investigated the combination of genetic vulnerability and parenting style (the trigger).
Children adopted from 19,000 Finnish mothers with schizophrenia between 1960 and 1979 were followed up.
Tienari found that a child-rearing style characterised by high levels of criticism and conflict and low levels of empathy was implicated in the development of schizophrenia, but for the children with a high genetic risk only.
This suggests that both genetic vulnerability and family-related stress are important in the development of schizophrenia.
Why does this matter?

Answer 9

This matters because it is direct support for the importance of adopting an interactionist approach to schizophrenia, including the idea that poor parenting is a possible source of stress

Question 10

Describe and evaluate the interactionist approach to both explaining and treating schizophrenia (16 marks).
The interactionist approach, also called the biosocial approach, is an approach that acknowledges that there are biological (for example genetic vulnerability), psychological (for example stress) and societal factors in the development of schizophrenia.
The diathesis-stress model says that both a vulnerability to schizophrenia and a stress-trigger are necessary in order to develop the condition.
One or more underlying factors make a person particularly vulnerably to developing schizophrenia, but the onset of the condition is triggered by stress.
In the original diathesis-stress model (Meehl, 1962), diathesis (vulnerability) was entirely genetic, the result of a single ‘schizogene.’
This led to the development of a biologically based schizotypic personality, one characteristic of which is sensitivity to stress.
According to Meehl, if a person does not have the schizogene, then no amount of stress would lead to schizophrenia, but in carriers of the gene, chronic stress through childhood and adolescence, in particular the presence of a schizophrenogenic mother, could result in the development of the condition.

The first AO3 PEEL paragraph is that there is research support for the dual role of vulnerability and stress in the development of schizophrenia.
For example, Tienari et al. (2004) investigated the combination of genetic vulnerability and parenting style (the trigger).
Children adopted from 19,000 Finnish mothers with schizophrenia between 1960 and 1979 were followed up.
Tienari found that a child-rearing style characterised by high levels of criticism and conflict and low levels of empathy was implicated in the development of schizophrenia, but for the children with a high genetic risk only.
This suggests that both genetic vulnerability and family-related stress are important in the development of schizophrenia.
This matters because it is direct support for the importance of adopting an interactionist approach to schizophrenia, including the idea that poor parenting is a possible source of stress.

Second AO3 PEEL paragraph

Answer 10

The second AO3 PEEL paragraph is that However, the original diathesis-stress model is over-simplified

Question 11

Describe and evaluate the interactionist approach to both explaining and treating schizophrenia (16 marks).
The interactionist approach, also called the biosocial approach, is an approach that acknowledges that there are biological (for example genetic vulnerability), psychological (for example stress) and societal factors in the development of schizophrenia.
The diathesis-stress model says that both a vulnerability to schizophrenia and a stress-trigger are necessary in order to develop the condition.
One or more underlying factors make a person particularly vulnerably to developing schizophrenia, but the onset of the condition is triggered by stress.
In the original diathesis-stress model (Meehl, 1962), diathesis (vulnerability) was entirely genetic, the result of a single ‘schizogene.’
This led to the development of a biologically based schizotypic personality, one characteristic of which is sensitivity to stress.
According to Meehl, if a person does not have the schizogene, then no amount of stress would lead to schizophrenia, but in carriers of the gene, chronic stress through childhood and adolescence, in particular the presence of a schizophrenogenic mother, could result in the development of the condition.

The first AO3 PEEL paragraph is that there is research support for the dual role of vulnerability and stress in the development of schizophrenia.
For example, Tienari et al. (2004) investigated the combination of genetic vulnerability and parenting style (the trigger).
Children adopted from 19,000 Finnish mothers with schizophrenia between 1960 and 1979 were followed up.
Tienari found that a child-rearing style characterised by high levels of criticism and conflict and low levels of empathy was implicated in the development of schizophrenia, but for the children with a high genetic risk only.
This suggests that both genetic vulnerability and family-related stress are important in the development of schizophrenia.
This matters because it is direct support for the importance of adopting an interactionist approach to schizophrenia, including the idea that poor parenting is a possible source of stress.

The second AO3 PEEL paragraph is that However, the original diathesis-stress model is over-simplified.
Why is this?

Answer 11

This is because multiple genes increase vulnerability to schizophrenia, so there is no single schizogene, since 108 separate genetic variations are associated with an increased risk of schizophrenia (Ripke et al.)

Question 12

Describe and evaluate the interactionist approach to both explaining and treating schizophrenia (16 marks).
The interactionist approach, also called the biosocial approach, is an approach that acknowledges that there are biological (for example genetic vulnerability), psychological (for example stress) and societal factors in the development of schizophrenia.
The diathesis-stress model says that both a vulnerability to schizophrenia and a stress-trigger are necessary in order to develop the condition.
One or more underlying factors make a person particularly vulnerably to developing schizophrenia, but the onset of the condition is triggered by stress.
In the original diathesis-stress model (Meehl, 1962), diathesis (vulnerability) was entirely genetic, the result of a single ‘schizogene.’
This led to the development of a biologically based schizotypic personality, one characteristic of which is sensitivity to stress.
According to Meehl, if a person does not have the schizogene, then no amount of stress would lead to schizophrenia, but in carriers of the gene, chronic stress through childhood and adolescence, in particular the presence of a schizophrenogenic mother, could result in the development of the condition.

The first AO3 PEEL paragraph is that there is research support for the dual role of vulnerability and stress in the development of schizophrenia.
For example, Tienari et al. (2004) investigated the combination of genetic vulnerability and parenting style (the trigger).
Children adopted from 19,000 Finnish mothers with schizophrenia between 1960 and 1979 were followed up.
Tienari found that a child-rearing style characterised by high levels of criticism and conflict and low levels of empathy was implicated in the development of schizophrenia, but for the children with a high genetic risk only.
This suggests that both genetic vulnerability and family-related stress are important in the development of schizophrenia.
This matters because it is direct support for the importance of adopting an interactionist approach to schizophrenia, including the idea that poor parenting is a possible source of stress.

The second AO3 PEEL paragraph is that However, the original diathesis-stress model is over-simplified.
This is because multiple genes increase vulnerability to schizophrenia, so there is no single schizogene, since 108 separate genetic variations are associated with an increased risk of schizophrenia (Ripke et al.).
What do modern views of diathesis also include?

Answer 12

Modern views of diathesis also include a range of factors beyond the genetic, including psychological trauma (Ingram and Luxton), so trauma becomes the diathesis, rather than the stressor

Question 13

Describe and evaluate the interactionist approach to both explaining and treating schizophrenia (16 marks).
The interactionist approach, also called the biosocial approach, is an approach that acknowledges that there are biological (for example genetic vulnerability), psychological (for example stress) and societal factors in the development of schizophrenia.
The diathesis-stress model says that both a vulnerability to schizophrenia and a stress-trigger are necessary in order to develop the condition.
One or more underlying factors make a person particularly vulnerably to developing schizophrenia, but the onset of the condition is triggered by stress.
In the original diathesis-stress model (Meehl, 1962), diathesis (vulnerability) was entirely genetic, the result of a single ‘schizogene.’
This led to the development of a biologically based schizotypic personality, one characteristic of which is sensitivity to stress.
According to Meehl, if a person does not have the schizogene, then no amount of stress would lead to schizophrenia, but in carriers of the gene, chronic stress through childhood and adolescence, in particular the presence of a schizophrenogenic mother, could result in the development of the condition.

The first AO3 PEEL paragraph is that there is research support for the dual role of vulnerability and stress in the development of schizophrenia.
For example, Tienari et al. (2004) investigated the combination of genetic vulnerability and parenting style (the trigger).
Children adopted from 19,000 Finnish mothers with schizophrenia between 1960 and 1979 were followed up.
Tienari found that a child-rearing style characterised by high levels of criticism and conflict and low levels of empathy was implicated in the development of schizophrenia, but for the children with a high genetic risk only.
This suggests that both genetic vulnerability and family-related stress are important in the development of schizophrenia.
This matters because it is direct support for the importance of adopting an interactionist approach to schizophrenia, including the idea that poor parenting is a possible source of stress.

The second AO3 PEEL paragraph is that However, the original diathesis-stress model is over-simplified.
This is because multiple genes increase vulnerability to schizophrenia, so there is no single schizogene, since 108 separate genetic variations are associated with an increased risk of schizophrenia (Ripke et al.).
Modern views of diathesis also include a range of factors beyond the genetic, including psychological trauma (Ingram and Luxton), so trauma becomes the diathesis, rather than the stressor.
Who is this supported by?

Answer 13

This is supported by Houston et al. (2008), who found that in his study of almost 6,000 participants, childhood sexual trauma emerged as a vulnerability factor for schizophrenia and cannabis use was a trigger

Question 14

Describe and evaluate the interactionist approach to both explaining and treating schizophrenia (16 marks).
The interactionist approach, also called the biosocial approach, is an approach that acknowledges that there are biological (for example genetic vulnerability), psychological (for example stress) and societal factors in the development of schizophrenia.
The diathesis-stress model says that both a vulnerability to schizophrenia and a stress-trigger are necessary in order to develop the condition.
One or more underlying factors make a person particularly vulnerably to developing schizophrenia, but the onset of the condition is triggered by stress.
In the original diathesis-stress model (Meehl, 1962), diathesis (vulnerability) was entirely genetic, the result of a single ‘schizogene.’
This led to the development of a biologically based schizotypic personality, one characteristic of which is sensitivity to stress.
According to Meehl, if a person does not have the schizogene, then no amount of stress would lead to schizophrenia, but in carriers of the gene, chronic stress through childhood and adolescence, in particular the presence of a schizophrenogenic mother, could result in the development of the condition.

The first AO3 PEEL paragraph is that there is research support for the dual role of vulnerability and stress in the development of schizophrenia.
For example, Tienari et al. (2004) investigated the combination of genetic vulnerability and parenting style (the trigger).
Children adopted from 19,000 Finnish mothers with schizophrenia between 1960 and 1979 were followed up.
Tienari found that a child-rearing style characterised by high levels of criticism and conflict and low levels of empathy was implicated in the development of schizophrenia, but for the children with a high genetic risk only.
This suggests that both genetic vulnerability and family-related stress are important in the development of schizophrenia.
This matters because it is direct support for the importance of adopting an interactionist approach to schizophrenia, including the idea that poor parenting is a possible source of stress.

The second AO3 PEEL paragraph is that However, the original diathesis-stress model is over-simplified.
This is because multiple genes increase vulnerability to schizophrenia, so there is no single schizogene, since 108 separate genetic variations are associated with an increased risk of schizophrenia (Ripke et al.).
Modern views of diathesis also include a range of factors beyond the genetic, including psychological trauma (Ingram and Luxton), so trauma becomes the diathesis, rather than the stressor.
This is supported by Houston et al. (2008), who found that in his study of almost 6,000 participants, childhood sexual trauma emerged as a vulnerability factor for schizophrenia and cannabis use was a trigger.
What does this show?

Answer 14

This shows that the old idea of diathesis as biological and stress as psychological is reductionist, because it is a limited explanation

Question 15

Describe and evaluate the interactionist approach to both explaining and treating schizophrenia (16 marks).
The interactionist approach, also called the biosocial approach, is an approach that acknowledges that there are biological (for example genetic vulnerability), psychological (for example stress) and societal factors in the development of schizophrenia.
The diathesis-stress model says that both a vulnerability to schizophrenia and a stress-trigger are necessary in order to develop the condition.
One or more underlying factors make a person particularly vulnerably to developing schizophrenia, but the onset of the condition is triggered by stress.
In the original diathesis-stress model (Meehl, 1962), diathesis (vulnerability) was entirely genetic, the result of a single ‘schizogene.’
This led to the development of a biologically based schizotypic personality, one characteristic of which is sensitivity to stress.
According to Meehl, if a person does not have the schizogene, then no amount of stress would lead to schizophrenia, but in carriers of the gene, chronic stress through childhood and adolescence, in particular the presence of a schizophrenogenic mother, could result in the development of the condition.

The first AO3 PEEL paragraph is that there is research support for the dual role of vulnerability and stress in the development of schizophrenia.
For example, Tienari et al. (2004) investigated the combination of genetic vulnerability and parenting style (the trigger).
Children adopted from 19,000 Finnish mothers with schizophrenia between 1960 and 1979 were followed up.
Tienari found that a child-rearing style characterised by high levels of criticism and conflict and low levels of empathy was implicated in the development of schizophrenia, but for the children with a high genetic risk only.
This suggests that both genetic vulnerability and family-related stress are important in the development of schizophrenia.
This matters because it is direct support for the importance of adopting an interactionist approach to schizophrenia, including the idea that poor parenting is a possible source of stress.

The second AO3 PEEL paragraph is that However, the original diathesis-stress model is over-simplified.
This is because multiple genes increase vulnerability to schizophrenia, so there is no single schizogene, since 108 separate genetic variations are associated with an increased risk of schizophrenia (Ripke et al.).
Modern views of diathesis also include a range of factors beyond the genetic, including psychological trauma (Ingram and Luxton), so trauma becomes the diathesis, rather than the stressor.
This is supported by Houston et al. (2008), who found that in his study of almost 6,000 participants, childhood sexual trauma emerged as a vulnerability factor for schizophrenia and cannabis use was a trigger.
This shows that the old idea of diathesis as biological and stress as psychological is reductionist, because it is a limited explanation.
This

Answer 15

This is an issue for Meehl’s diathesis-stress model, but not for newer models

Question 16

Describe and evaluate the interactionist approach to both explaining and treating schizophrenia (16 marks).
The interactionist approach, also called the biosocial approach, is an approach that acknowledges that there are biological (for example genetic vulnerability), psychological (for example stress) and societal factors in the development of schizophrenia.
The diathesis-stress model says that both a vulnerability to schizophrenia and a stress-trigger are necessary in order to develop the condition.
One or more underlying factors make a person particularly vulnerably to developing schizophrenia, but the onset of the condition is triggered by stress.
In the original diathesis-stress model (Meehl, 1962), diathesis (vulnerability) was entirely genetic, the result of a single ‘schizogene.’
This led to the development of a biologically based schizotypic personality, one characteristic of which is sensitivity to stress.
According to Meehl, if a person does not have the schizogene, then no amount of stress would lead to schizophrenia, but in carriers of the gene, chronic stress through childhood and adolescence, in particular the presence of a schizophrenogenic mother, could result in the development of the condition.

The first AO3 PEEL paragraph is that there is research support for the dual role of vulnerability and stress in the development of schizophrenia.
For example, Tienari et al. (2004) investigated the combination of genetic vulnerability and parenting style (the trigger).
Children adopted from 19,000 Finnish mothers with schizophrenia between 1960 and 1979 were followed up.
Tienari found that a child-rearing style characterised by high levels of criticism and conflict and low levels of empathy was implicated in the development of schizophrenia, but for the children with a high genetic risk only.
This suggests that both genetic vulnerability and family-related stress are important in the development of schizophrenia.
This matters because it is direct support for the importance of adopting an interactionist approach to schizophrenia, including the idea that poor parenting is a possible source of stress.

The second AO3 PEEL paragraph is that However, the original diathesis-stress model is over-simplified.
This is because multiple genes increase vulnerability to schizophrenia, so there is no single schizogene, since 108 separate genetic variations are associated with an increased risk of schizophrenia (Ripke et al.).
Modern views of diathesis also include a range of factors beyond the genetic, including psychological trauma (Ingram and Luxton), so trauma becomes the diathesis, rather than the stressor.
This is supported by Houston et al. (2008), who found that in his study of almost 6,000 participants, childhood sexual trauma emerged as a vulnerability factor for schizophrenia and cannabis use was a trigger.
This shows that the old idea of diathesis as biological and stress as psychological is reductionist, because it is a limited explanation.
This is an issue for Meehl’s diathesis-stress model, but not for newer models.

Third AO3 PEEL paragraph

Answer 16

The third AO3 PEEL paragraph is that Despite this, there is research support for the effectiveness of combining biological and psychological treatments for schizophrenia, compared to only biological treatments

Question 17

Describe and evaluate the interactionist approach to both explaining and treating schizophrenia (16 marks).
The interactionist approach, also called the biosocial approach, is an approach that acknowledges that there are biological (for example genetic vulnerability), psychological (for example stress) and societal factors in the development of schizophrenia.
The diathesis-stress model says that both a vulnerability to schizophrenia and a stress-trigger are necessary in order to develop the condition.
One or more underlying factors make a person particularly vulnerably to developing schizophrenia, but the onset of the condition is triggered by stress.
In the original diathesis-stress model (Meehl, 1962), diathesis (vulnerability) was entirely genetic, the result of a single ‘schizogene.’
This led to the development of a biologically based schizotypic personality, one characteristic of which is sensitivity to stress.
According to Meehl, if a person does not have the schizogene, then no amount of stress would lead to schizophrenia, but in carriers of the gene, chronic stress through childhood and adolescence, in particular the presence of a schizophrenogenic mother, could result in the development of the condition.

The first AO3 PEEL paragraph is that there is research support for the dual role of vulnerability and stress in the development of schizophrenia.
For example, Tienari et al. (2004) investigated the combination of genetic vulnerability and parenting style (the trigger).
Children adopted from 19,000 Finnish mothers with schizophrenia between 1960 and 1979 were followed up.
Tienari found that a child-rearing style characterised by high levels of criticism and conflict and low levels of empathy was implicated in the development of schizophrenia, but for the children with a high genetic risk only.
This suggests that both genetic vulnerability and family-related stress are important in the development of schizophrenia.
This matters because it is direct support for the importance of adopting an interactionist approach to schizophrenia, including the idea that poor parenting is a possible source of stress.

The second AO3 PEEL paragraph is that However, the original diathesis-stress model is over-simplified.
This is because multiple genes increase vulnerability to schizophrenia, so there is no single schizogene, since 108 separate genetic variations are associated with an increased risk of schizophrenia (Ripke et al.).
Modern views of diathesis also include a range of factors beyond the genetic, including psychological trauma (Ingram and Luxton), so trauma becomes the diathesis, rather than the stressor.
This is supported by Houston et al. (2008), who found that in his study of almost 6,000 participants, childhood sexual trauma emerged as a vulnerability factor for schizophrenia and cannabis use was a trigger.
This shows that the old idea of diathesis as biological and stress as psychological is reductionist, because it is a limited explanation.
This is an issue for Meehl’s diathesis-stress model, but not for newer models.

The third AO3 PEEL paragraph is that Despite this, there is research support for the effectiveness of combining biological and psychological treatments for schizophrenia, compared to only biological treatments.
Why is this?

Answer 17

This is because as Turkington et al. (2006) point out, it is not possible to adopt a purely biological approach and simultaneously treat schizophrenics with CBT to relieve psychological symptoms – it requires adopting an interactionist model

Question 18

Describe and evaluate the interactionist approach to both explaining and treating schizophrenia (16 marks).
The interactionist approach, also called the biosocial approach, is an approach that acknowledges that there are biological (for example genetic vulnerability), psychological (for example stress) and societal factors in the development of schizophrenia.
The diathesis-stress model says that both a vulnerability to schizophrenia and a stress-trigger are necessary in order to develop the condition.
One or more underlying factors make a person particularly vulnerably to developing schizophrenia, but the onset of the condition is triggered by stress.
In the original diathesis-stress model (Meehl, 1962), diathesis (vulnerability) was entirely genetic, the result of a single ‘schizogene.’
This led to the development of a biologically based schizotypic personality, one characteristic of which is sensitivity to stress.
According to Meehl, if a person does not have the schizogene, then no amount of stress would lead to schizophrenia, but in carriers of the gene, chronic stress through childhood and adolescence, in particular the presence of a schizophrenogenic mother, could result in the development of the condition.

The first AO3 PEEL paragraph is that there is research support for the dual role of vulnerability and stress in the development of schizophrenia.
For example, Tienari et al. (2004) investigated the combination of genetic vulnerability and parenting style (the trigger).
Children adopted from 19,000 Finnish mothers with schizophrenia between 1960 and 1979 were followed up.
Tienari found that a child-rearing style characterised by high levels of criticism and conflict and low levels of empathy was implicated in the development of schizophrenia, but for the children with a high genetic risk only.
This suggests that both genetic vulnerability and family-related stress are important in the development of schizophrenia.
This matters because it is direct support for the importance of adopting an interactionist approach to schizophrenia, including the idea that poor parenting is a possible source of stress.

The second AO3 PEEL paragraph is that However, the original diathesis-stress model is over-simplified.
This is because multiple genes increase vulnerability to schizophrenia, so there is no single schizogene, since 108 separate genetic variations are associated with an increased risk of schizophrenia (Ripke et al.).
Modern views of diathesis also include a range of factors beyond the genetic, including psychological trauma (Ingram and Luxton), so trauma becomes the diathesis, rather than the stressor.
This is supported by Houston et al. (2008), who found that in his study of almost 6,000 participants, childhood sexual trauma emerged as a vulnerability factor for schizophrenia and cannabis use was a trigger.
This shows that the old idea of diathesis as biological and stress as psychological is reductionist, because it is a limited explanation.
This is an issue for Meehl’s diathesis-stress model, but not for newer models.

The third AO3 PEEL paragraph is that Despite this, there is research support for the effectiveness of combining biological and psychological treatments for schizophrenia, compared to only biological treatments.
This is because as Turkington et al. (2006) point out, it is not possible to adopt a purely biological approach and simultaneously treat schizophrenics with CBT to relieve psychological symptoms – it requires adopting an interactionist model.
Example

Answer 18

For example, Tarrier et al. (2004) randomly allocated 315 patients to a:
1. Medication and CBT group
2. Medication and supportive counselling group
Or,
3. A control group of medication only.

Patients in the two combination groups showed lower symptom levels than those in the control group

Question 19

Describe and evaluate the interactionist approach to both explaining and treating schizophrenia (16 marks).
The interactionist approach, also called the biosocial approach, is an approach that acknowledges that there are biological (for example genetic vulnerability), psychological (for example stress) and societal factors in the development of schizophrenia.
The diathesis-stress model says that both a vulnerability to schizophrenia and a stress-trigger are necessary in order to develop the condition.
One or more underlying factors make a person particularly vulnerably to developing schizophrenia, but the onset of the condition is triggered by stress.
In the original diathesis-stress model (Meehl, 1962), diathesis (vulnerability) was entirely genetic, the result of a single ‘schizogene.’
This led to the development of a biologically based schizotypic personality, one characteristic of which is sensitivity to stress.
According to Meehl, if a person does not have the schizogene, then no amount of stress would lead to schizophrenia, but in carriers of the gene, chronic stress through childhood and adolescence, in particular the presence of a schizophrenogenic mother, could result in the development of the condition.

The first AO3 PEEL paragraph is that there is research support for the dual role of vulnerability and stress in the development of schizophrenia.
For example, Tienari et al. (2004) investigated the combination of genetic vulnerability and parenting style (the trigger).
Children adopted from 19,000 Finnish mothers with schizophrenia between 1960 and 1979 were followed up.
Tienari found that a child-rearing style characterised by high levels of criticism and conflict and low levels of empathy was implicated in the development of schizophrenia, but for the children with a high genetic risk only.
This suggests that both genetic vulnerability and family-related stress are important in the development of schizophrenia.
This matters because it is direct support for the importance of adopting an interactionist approach to schizophrenia, including the idea that poor parenting is a possible source of stress.

The second AO3 PEEL paragraph is that However, the original diathesis-stress model is over-simplified.
This is because multiple genes increase vulnerability to schizophrenia, so there is no single schizogene, since 108 separate genetic variations are associated with an increased risk of schizophrenia (Ripke et al.).
Modern views of diathesis also include a range of factors beyond the genetic, including psychological trauma (Ingram and Luxton), so trauma becomes the diathesis, rather than the stressor.
This is supported by Houston et al. (2008), who found that in his study of almost 6,000 participants, childhood sexual trauma emerged as a vulnerability factor for schizophrenia and cannabis use was a trigger.
This shows that the old idea of diathesis as biological and stress as psychological is reductionist, because it is a limited explanation.
This is an issue for Meehl’s diathesis-stress model, but not for newer models.

The third AO3 PEEL paragraph is that Despite this, there is research support for the effectiveness of combining biological and psychological treatments for schizophrenia, compared to only biological treatments.
This is because as Turkington et al. (2006) point out, it is not possible to adopt a purely biological approach and simultaneously treat schizophrenics with CBT to relieve psychological symptoms – it requires adopting an interactionist model.
For example, Tarrier et al. (2004) randomly allocated 315 patients to a medication and CBT group, medication and supportive counselling group or a control group of medication only.
Patients in the two combination groups showed lower symptom levels than those in the control group.
What does this do?

Answer 19

This illustrates the usefulness of adopting an interactionist approach in the treatment of schizophrenia and therefore highlights the importance of taking an interactionist approach

Question 20

Describe and evaluate the interactionist approach to both explaining and treating schizophrenia (16 marks).
The interactionist approach, also called the biosocial approach, is an approach that acknowledges that there are biological (for example genetic vulnerability), psychological (for example stress) and societal factors in the development of schizophrenia.
The diathesis-stress model says that both a vulnerability to schizophrenia and a stress-trigger are necessary in order to develop the condition.
One or more underlying factors make a person particularly vulnerably to developing schizophrenia, but the onset of the condition is triggered by stress.
In the original diathesis-stress model (Meehl, 1962), diathesis (vulnerability) was entirely genetic, the result of a single ‘schizogene.’
This led to the development of a biologically based schizotypic personality, one characteristic of which is sensitivity to stress.
According to Meehl, if a person does not have the schizogene, then no amount of stress would lead to schizophrenia, but in carriers of the gene, chronic stress through childhood and adolescence, in particular the presence of a schizophrenogenic mother, could result in the development of the condition.

The first AO3 PEEL paragraph is that there is research support for the dual role of vulnerability and stress in the development of schizophrenia.
For example, Tienari et al. (2004) investigated the combination of genetic vulnerability and parenting style (the trigger).
Children adopted from 19,000 Finnish mothers with schizophrenia between 1960 and 1979 were followed up.
Tienari found that a child-rearing style characterised by high levels of criticism and conflict and low levels of empathy was implicated in the development of schizophrenia, but for the children with a high genetic risk only.
This suggests that both genetic vulnerability and family-related stress are important in the development of schizophrenia.
This matters because it is direct support for the importance of adopting an interactionist approach to schizophrenia, including the idea that poor parenting is a possible source of stress.

The second AO3 PEEL paragraph is that However, the original diathesis-stress model is over-simplified.
This is because multiple genes increase vulnerability to schizophrenia, so there is no single schizogene, since 108 separate genetic variations are associated with an increased risk of schizophrenia (Ripke et al.).
Modern views of diathesis also include a range of factors beyond the genetic, including psychological trauma (Ingram and Luxton), so trauma becomes the diathesis, rather than the stressor.
This is supported by Houston et al. (2008), who found that in his study of almost 6,000 participants, childhood sexual trauma emerged as a vulnerability factor for schizophrenia and cannabis use was a trigger.
This shows that the old idea of diathesis as biological and stress as psychological is reductionist, because it is a limited explanation.
This is an issue for Meehl’s diathesis-stress model, but not for newer models.

The third AO3 PEEL paragraph is that Despite this, there is research support for the effectiveness of combining biological and psychological treatments for schizophrenia, compared to only biological treatments.
This is because as Turkington et al. (2006) point out, it is not possible to adopt a purely biological approach and simultaneously treat schizophrenics with CBT to relieve psychological symptoms – it requires adopting an interactionist model.
For example, Tarrier et al. (2004) randomly allocated 315 patients to a medication and CBT group, medication and supportive counselling group or a control group of medication only.
Patients in the two combination groups showed lower symptom levels than those in the control group.
This illustrates the usefulness of adopting an interactionist approach in the treatment of schizophrenia and therefore highlights the importance of taking an interactionist approach.

Fourth AO3 PEEL paragraph

Answer 20

The fourth AO3 PEEL paragraph is that one limitation of the interactionist approach is that we don’t know exactly how diathesis and stress work

Question 21

Describe and evaluate the interactionist approach to both explaining and treating schizophrenia (16 marks).
The interactionist approach, also called the biosocial approach, is an approach that acknowledges that there are biological (for example genetic vulnerability), psychological (for example stress) and societal factors in the development of schizophrenia.
The diathesis-stress model says that both a vulnerability to schizophrenia and a stress-trigger are necessary in order to develop the condition.
One or more underlying factors make a person particularly vulnerably to developing schizophrenia, but the onset of the condition is triggered by stress.
In the original diathesis-stress model (Meehl, 1962), diathesis (vulnerability) was entirely genetic, the result of a single ‘schizogene.’
This led to the development of a biologically based schizotypic personality, one characteristic of which is sensitivity to stress.
According to Meehl, if a person does not have the schizogene, then no amount of stress would lead to schizophrenia, but in carriers of the gene, chronic stress through childhood and adolescence, in particular the presence of a schizophrenogenic mother, could result in the development of the condition.

The first AO3 PEEL paragraph is that there is research support for the dual role of vulnerability and stress in the development of schizophrenia.
For example, Tienari et al. (2004) investigated the combination of genetic vulnerability and parenting style (the trigger).
Children adopted from 19,000 Finnish mothers with schizophrenia between 1960 and 1979 were followed up.
Tienari found that a child-rearing style characterised by high levels of criticism and conflict and low levels of empathy was implicated in the development of schizophrenia, but for the children with a high genetic risk only.
This suggests that both genetic vulnerability and family-related stress are important in the development of schizophrenia.
This matters because it is direct support for the importance of adopting an interactionist approach to schizophrenia, including the idea that poor parenting is a possible source of stress.

The second AO3 PEEL paragraph is that However, the original diathesis-stress model is over-simplified.
This is because multiple genes increase vulnerability to schizophrenia, so there is no single schizogene, since 108 separate genetic variations are associated with an increased risk of schizophrenia (Ripke et al.).
Modern views of diathesis also include a range of factors beyond the genetic, including psychological trauma (Ingram and Luxton), so trauma becomes the diathesis, rather than the stressor.
This is supported by Houston et al. (2008), who found that in his study of almost 6,000 participants, childhood sexual trauma emerged as a vulnerability factor for schizophrenia and cannabis use was a trigger.
This shows that the old idea of diathesis as biological and stress as psychological is reductionist, because it is a limited explanation.
This is an issue for Meehl’s diathesis-stress model, but not for newer models.

The third AO3 PEEL paragraph is that Despite this, there is research support for the effectiveness of combining biological and psychological treatments for schizophrenia, compared to only biological treatments.
This is because as Turkington et al. (2006) point out, it is not possible to adopt a purely biological approach and simultaneously treat schizophrenics with CBT to relieve psychological symptoms – it requires adopting an interactionist model.
For example, Tarrier et al. (2004) randomly allocated 315 patients to a medication and CBT group, medication and supportive counselling group or a control group of medication only.
Patients in the two combination groups showed lower symptom levels than those in the control group.
This illustrates the usefulness of adopting an interactionist approach in the treatment of schizophrenia and therefore highlights the importance of taking an interactionist approach.

The fourth AO3 PEEL paragraph is that one limitation of the interactionist approach is that we don’t know exactly how diathesis and stress work.
What is there strong evidence to suggest?

Answer 21

There is strong evidence to suggest that some sort of underlying vulnerability coupled with stress can lead to schizophrenia

Question 22

Describe and evaluate the interactionist approach to both explaining and treating schizophrenia (16 marks).
The interactionist approach, also called the biosocial approach, is an approach that acknowledges that there are biological (for example genetic vulnerability), psychological (for example stress) and societal factors in the development of schizophrenia.
The diathesis-stress model says that both a vulnerability to schizophrenia and a stress-trigger are necessary in order to develop the condition.
One or more underlying factors make a person particularly vulnerably to developing schizophrenia, but the onset of the condition is triggered by stress.
In the original diathesis-stress model (Meehl, 1962), diathesis (vulnerability) was entirely genetic, the result of a single ‘schizogene.’
This led to the development of a biologically based schizotypic personality, one characteristic of which is sensitivity to stress.
According to Meehl, if a person does not have the schizogene, then no amount of stress would lead to schizophrenia, but in carriers of the gene, chronic stress through childhood and adolescence, in particular the presence of a schizophrenogenic mother, could result in the development of the condition.

The first AO3 PEEL paragraph is that there is research support for the dual role of vulnerability and stress in the development of schizophrenia.
For example, Tienari et al. (2004) investigated the combination of genetic vulnerability and parenting style (the trigger).
Children adopted from 19,000 Finnish mothers with schizophrenia between 1960 and 1979 were followed up.
Tienari found that a child-rearing style characterised by high levels of criticism and conflict and low levels of empathy was implicated in the development of schizophrenia, but for the children with a high genetic risk only.
This suggests that both genetic vulnerability and family-related stress are important in the development of schizophrenia.
This matters because it is direct support for the importance of adopting an interactionist approach to schizophrenia, including the idea that poor parenting is a possible source of stress.

The second AO3 PEEL paragraph is that However, the original diathesis-stress model is over-simplified.
This is because multiple genes increase vulnerability to schizophrenia, so there is no single schizogene, since 108 separate genetic variations are associated with an increased risk of schizophrenia (Ripke et al.).
Modern views of diathesis also include a range of factors beyond the genetic, including psychological trauma (Ingram and Luxton), so trauma becomes the diathesis, rather than the stressor.
This is supported by Houston et al. (2008), who found that in his study of almost 6,000 participants, childhood sexual trauma emerged as a vulnerability factor for schizophrenia and cannabis use was a trigger.
This shows that the old idea of diathesis as biological and stress as psychological is reductionist, because it is a limited explanation.
This is an issue for Meehl’s diathesis-stress model, but not for newer models.

The third AO3 PEEL paragraph is that Despite this, there is research support for the effectiveness of combining biological and psychological treatments for schizophrenia, compared to only biological treatments.
This is because as Turkington et al. (2006) point out, it is not possible to adopt a purely biological approach and simultaneously treat schizophrenics with CBT to relieve psychological symptoms – it requires adopting an interactionist model.
For example, Tarrier et al. (2004) randomly allocated 315 patients to a medication and CBT group, medication and supportive counselling group or a control group of medication only.
Patients in the two combination groups showed lower symptom levels than those in the control group.
This illustrates the usefulness of adopting an interactionist approach in the treatment of schizophrenia and therefore highlights the importance of taking an interactionist approach.

The fourth AO3 PEEL paragraph is that one limitation of the interactionist approach is that we don’t know exactly how diathesis and stress work.
There is strong evidence to suggest that some sort of underlying vulnerability coupled with stress can lead to schizophrenia.
What do we also have?

Answer 22

We also have well-informed suggestions for how vulnerabilities and stress might lead to symptoms

Question 23

Describe and evaluate the interactionist approach to both explaining and treating schizophrenia (16 marks).
The interactionist approach, also called the biosocial approach, is an approach that acknowledges that there are biological (for example genetic vulnerability), psychological (for example stress) and societal factors in the development of schizophrenia.
The diathesis-stress model says that both a vulnerability to schizophrenia and a stress-trigger are necessary in order to develop the condition.
One or more underlying factors make a person particularly vulnerably to developing schizophrenia, but the onset of the condition is triggered by stress.
In the original diathesis-stress model (Meehl, 1962), diathesis (vulnerability) was entirely genetic, the result of a single ‘schizogene.’
This led to the development of a biologically based schizotypic personality, one characteristic of which is sensitivity to stress.
According to Meehl, if a person does not have the schizogene, then no amount of stress would lead to schizophrenia, but in carriers of the gene, chronic stress through childhood and adolescence, in particular the presence of a schizophrenogenic mother, could result in the development of the condition.

The first AO3 PEEL paragraph is that there is research support for the dual role of vulnerability and stress in the development of schizophrenia.
For example, Tienari et al. (2004) investigated the combination of genetic vulnerability and parenting style (the trigger).
Children adopted from 19,000 Finnish mothers with schizophrenia between 1960 and 1979 were followed up.
Tienari found that a child-rearing style characterised by high levels of criticism and conflict and low levels of empathy was implicated in the development of schizophrenia, but for the children with a high genetic risk only.
This suggests that both genetic vulnerability and family-related stress are important in the development of schizophrenia.
This matters because it is direct support for the importance of adopting an interactionist approach to schizophrenia, including the idea that poor parenting is a possible source of stress.

The second AO3 PEEL paragraph is that However, the original diathesis-stress model is over-simplified.
This is because multiple genes increase vulnerability to schizophrenia, so there is no single schizogene, since 108 separate genetic variations are associated with an increased risk of schizophrenia (Ripke et al.).
Modern views of diathesis also include a range of factors beyond the genetic, including psychological trauma (Ingram and Luxton), so trauma becomes the diathesis, rather than the stressor.
This is supported by Houston et al. (2008), who found that in his study of almost 6,000 participants, childhood sexual trauma emerged as a vulnerability factor for schizophrenia and cannabis use was a trigger.
This shows that the old idea of diathesis as biological and stress as psychological is reductionist, because it is a limited explanation.
This is an issue for Meehl’s diathesis-stress model, but not for newer models.

The third AO3 PEEL paragraph is that Despite this, there is research support for the effectiveness of combining biological and psychological treatments for schizophrenia, compared to only biological treatments.
This is because as Turkington et al. (2006) point out, it is not possible to adopt a purely biological approach and simultaneously treat schizophrenics with CBT to relieve psychological symptoms – it requires adopting an interactionist model.
For example, Tarrier et al. (2004) randomly allocated 315 patients to a medication and CBT group, medication and supportive counselling group or a control group of medication only.
Patients in the two combination groups showed lower symptom levels than those in the control group.
This illustrates the usefulness of adopting an interactionist approach in the treatment of schizophrenia and therefore highlights the importance of taking an interactionist approach.

The fourth AO3 PEEL paragraph is that one limitation of the interactionist approach is that we don’t know exactly how diathesis and stress work.
There is strong evidence to suggest that some sort of underlying vulnerability coupled with stress can lead to schizophrenia.
We also have well-informed suggestions for how vulnerabilities and stress might lead to symptoms.
However, what do we not yet fully understand?

Answer 23

However, we do not yet fully understand the mechanisms by which the symptoms of schizophrenia appear and how both vulnerability and stress produce them

Question 24

Describe and evaluate the interactionist approach to both explaining and treating schizophrenia (16 marks).
The interactionist approach, also called the biosocial approach, is an approach that acknowledges that there are biological (for example genetic vulnerability), psychological (for example stress) and societal factors in the development of schizophrenia.
The diathesis-stress model says that both a vulnerability to schizophrenia and a stress-trigger are necessary in order to develop the condition.
One or more underlying factors make a person particularly vulnerably to developing schizophrenia, but the onset of the condition is triggered by stress.
In the original diathesis-stress model (Meehl, 1962), diathesis (vulnerability) was entirely genetic, the result of a single ‘schizogene.’
This led to the development of a biologically based schizotypic personality, one characteristic of which is sensitivity to stress.
According to Meehl, if a person does not have the schizogene, then no amount of stress would lead to schizophrenia, but in carriers of the gene, chronic stress through childhood and adolescence, in particular the presence of a schizophrenogenic mother, could result in the development of the condition.

The first AO3 PEEL paragraph is that there is research support for the dual role of vulnerability and stress in the development of schizophrenia.
For example, Tienari et al. (2004) investigated the combination of genetic vulnerability and parenting style (the trigger).
Children adopted from 19,000 Finnish mothers with schizophrenia between 1960 and 1979 were followed up.
Tienari found that a child-rearing style characterised by high levels of criticism and conflict and low levels of empathy was implicated in the development of schizophrenia, but for the children with a high genetic risk only.
This suggests that both genetic vulnerability and family-related stress are important in the development of schizophrenia.
This matters because it is direct support for the importance of adopting an interactionist approach to schizophrenia, including the idea that poor parenting is a possible source of stress.

The second AO3 PEEL paragraph is that However, the original diathesis-stress model is over-simplified.
This is because multiple genes increase vulnerability to schizophrenia, so there is no single schizogene, since 108 separate genetic variations are associated with an increased risk of schizophrenia (Ripke et al.).
Modern views of diathesis also include a range of factors beyond the genetic, including psychological trauma (Ingram and Luxton), so trauma becomes the diathesis, rather than the stressor.
This is supported by Houston et al. (2008), who found that in his study of almost 6,000 participants, childhood sexual trauma emerged as a vulnerability factor for schizophrenia and cannabis use was a trigger.
This shows that the old idea of diathesis as biological and stress as psychological is reductionist, because it is a limited explanation.
This is an issue for Meehl’s diathesis-stress model, but not for newer models.

The third AO3 PEEL paragraph is that Despite this, there is research support for the effectiveness of combining biological and psychological treatments for schizophrenia, compared to only biological treatments.
This is because as Turkington et al. (2006) point out, it is not possible to adopt a purely biological approach and simultaneously treat schizophrenics with CBT to relieve psychological symptoms – it requires adopting an interactionist model.
For example, Tarrier et al. (2004) randomly allocated 315 patients to a medication and CBT group, medication and supportive counselling group or a control group of medication only.
Patients in the two combination groups showed lower symptom levels than those in the control group.
This illustrates the usefulness of adopting an interactionist approach in the treatment of schizophrenia and therefore highlights the importance of taking an interactionist approach.

The fourth AO3 PEEL paragraph is that one limitation of the interactionist approach is that we don’t know exactly how diathesis and stress work.
There is strong evidence to suggest that some sort of underlying vulnerability coupled with stress can lead to schizophrenia.
We also have well-informed suggestions for how vulnerabilities and stress might lead to symptoms.
However, we do not yet fully understand the mechanisms by which the symptoms of schizophrenia appear and how both vulnerability and stress produce them.
Why does this matter?

Answer 24

This matters because we still cannot predict the development of schizophrenia and therefore other explanations, for example the biological explanation, are more valid and more useful when explaining and treating schizophrenia, because the risk of developing schizophrenia does increase with genetic similarity (Gottesman) and antipsychotics are effective in treating the condition (Thornley et al. and Meltzer)