family therapy as a psychological treatment Flashcards
what did Falloon devise?
Falloon et al (1985) devised a form of family management to be used when the patient returned home from hospital.
what is family therapy?
it teaches everyone in the family how to be constructive, undemanding and empathetic in their dealings with each other and their schizophrenic relative
what are family members told in relation to their schizophrenic relative?
they are told they should not have high expectations of the family member with schizophrenia and should avoid stressful interactions with him/her
what several factors does Falloons psycho-eductation involve?
- family members are taught how to provide ongoing support and empathetic engagement
- clinical resources are available if required in a crisis (also families understanding their meds and side effects)
- patients are given advice in enhancing their social network and developing good communication skills.
what should families be considered as in the treatment process?
should be considered as part of the solution rather than the problem
AO3: how is ‘effectiveness’ a strength to family therapies as a psychological treatment of schizophrenia?
Pharaoh et al (2010) carried out a meta analysis of 53 studies comparing outcomes of family interventions with ‘standard care’. the results found, relapse rates were lower among those patients receiving family therapy in the 2 years after. their compliance with medication was higher, however, their were mixed findings with respect to improved mental state and social functioning.
AO3: how is ‘effectiveness’ a limitation to family therapies as a psychological treatment of schizophrenia?
family therapy on its own is unlikely to ever lead to a reduction in the symptoms, only when used with drugs, which they are always likely to need. this can lead us to question the actual, real importance and effectiveness of family therapy.
AO3: how is ‘appropriateness’ a strength to family therapy as a psychological treatment of schizophrenia?
there is evidence that family relationships are important in the maintenance of schizophrenia, therefore, it making more sense to offer therapy based on dealing with this. 65% of patients with schizophrenia return home from hospital to live with their families, more than ever before. it is therefore even more important that the family environment is stress free.
AO3: how is ‘individual differences’ a limitation to family therapy as a psychological treatment of schizophrenia?
a significant number of patients are unmarried, or may’ve experienced a family breakdown since developing schizophrenia. this means they do not belong to a functioning family and as a result, family therapy cant be implemented.
