Schizophrenia intro

Question 1

What is schizophrenia?

Answer 1

A severe and enduring psychiatric disorder characterised by a loss of contact with reality which can severely impair social functioning

Question 2

When is schizophrenia usually detected?

Answer 2

Late adolescence or early adulthood

Question 3

What is the prevalence of schizophrenia?

Answer 3

Diagnosed in approximately 1% of the population

Equal prevalence in males and females, although evidence suggests more in males

Question 4

What is the cause of schizophrenia?

Answer 4

Genetic cause, enhanced or activated by extreme life events such as low SES, family conflicts, physical illness and major changes (France & Kramer, 2001)

Question 5

What evidence provides support for the genetic link in schizophrenia?

Answer 5

Gottesman & Shields (1976) found up to 42% of MZ twins will share a diagnosis compared to 9% of DZ twins

Question 6

What are the limitations of diagnosis? (3 points)

Answer 6

1. Considerable stigma and misinformation
2. Can alter the individual’s relationships with others (France & Kramer, 2001)
3. Schleff (1966) believes diagnosis labels the individual, can lead to a self-fulfilling prophecy and lower self-esteem

Question 7

What is the hallmark symptom of schizophrenia?

Answer 7

Psychosis, experiencing hallucinations, delusions and thought disorder

Question 8

What are the 4 domains of symptoms?

Answer 8

1. Positive
2. Negative
3. Cognitive
4. Mood

Question 9

What is the prognosis of schizophrenia?

Answer 9

Increased risk of suicide and premature death linked to lifestyle and physical ill health (Turner, 2009)

Question 10

How is schizophrenia managed?

Answer 10

Anti-psychotic drug treatment is central to management but psychological and social approaches are important at varying stages (Turner, 2009)