Psychological Explanations Of Schizophrenia: Cognitive Dysfunction Flashcards
What are the 2 types of dysfunctional thought processing that could underlie some symptoms of schizophrenia (as identified by Frith et al.)?
Metarepresentation and Central control
What is metarepresentation?
The cognitive ability to differentiate between our own actions and the actions of others, allowing us insight into the intentions & emotions of others, as well as maintaining a realistic/functional view of our own goals + intentions
What is central control?
The cognitive ability to suppress undesired, automatic responses while carrying out deliberate actions.
Why is a deficit in metarepresentation related to schizophrenia?
A deficit in metarepresentation would disrupt a person’s ability to recognise their own thoughts & actions and distinguish them from the thoughts & actions being carried out by others. Could lead to delusions of being controlled or auditory hallucinations.
Why is a deficit in central control related to schizophrenia?
A deficit in central control can lead to a person being unable to control their automatic response to stimuli. Could lead to disorganised speech & derailment of thought.
What is a strength of the cognitive explanation of schizophrenia? (Research support)
Stirling et al (2006) - Stroop Test - Ps had to name the ink colours of colour words, suppressing the impulse to read the words in order to do the task - SZ patients took TWICE as long to name the ink colour than non-SZ patients
What is a limitation of the cognitive explanation of schizophrenia?
Only explains proximal causes of schizophrenia - more effective to use interactionist explanations (bio+cog) to explain - therefore cog. on its own is limited
