Interactionist Approach - AO3

Question 1

What is a strength of interactionist approach?

Answer 1

• P: Strength = evidence for both vulnerability and triggers
• E: Tienari et al (2004): Finnish adoption study; 19,000 children with biological mother having SZ raised in a different environment assessed EE and communication of adoptive parents
• E: Dysfunctional communication style was linked to development but only in those with genetic vulnerability
• L: Combination of genetic vulnerability and family stress can lead to increased risk of SZ

Question 2

What is a limitation of interactionist approach?

Answer 2

• P: Limitation of original diathesis stress model = over-simplicity
• E: Evidence for multiple factors esp more than one gene (Ripke et al 2014)
• E: Houston et al (2008) found childhood sexual abuse was a major vulnerability and cannabis use a major trigger
• L: There are multiple factors, biological and psychological, affecting diathesis stress, supporting modern understanding

Question 3

What is a strength of interactionist approach? (part of PECS)

Answer 3

• P: Strength = evidence for treatment
• E: Tarrier et al (2004): Randomly allocated 315 PPs to groups having medication and CBT, medication adn counselling and only medication (control)
• E: Combination group showed lower symptoms
• L: Studies show clear practical advantage in adapting the interactionist approach as it leads to superior treatment outcomes

Question 4

What is a counterpoint to interactionist approach?

Answer 4

• Treatment causation fallacy: Just because combinations are effeective does not mean combinations cause (dont overinterpret) (paracetemol)
• It may be that any form of treatment that combines methods is what is most effective
• Not an interaction between varying biological/environmental factors