W11 Schizophrenia Spectrum Disorders

Question 1

What are the main symptoms of psychosis?

Answer 1

Disorganized symptoms, negative symptoms, positive symptoms.

Question 2

What are disorganized symptoms?

Answer 2

Disorganized speech (e.g., derailment), inappropriate affect, disorganized behavior (e.g., psychomotor agitation, catatonia).

Question 3

What are negative symptoms?

Answer 3

Avolition (lack of motivation), anhedonia (loss of pleasure), asociality (lack of interest in social interactions), alogia (poverty of speech), affective flattening (blunted emotional expression).

Question 4

What are positive symptoms?

Answer 4

Hallucinations (perceptions without sensory stimulation) and delusions (strange beliefs despite contrary evidence).

Question 5

What types of hallucinations are common in schizophrenia?

Answer 5

Auditory (79.8%), visual (30.7%), somatic/tactile (19.3%), olfactory (9.6%).

Question 6

What are examples of delusions?

Answer 6

Persecutory, grandiose, religious, somatic, reference, command, mind reading, thought broadcasting, thought insertion, thought withdrawal.

Question 7

What is the motivational view of delusions?

Answer 7

Delusions may be an attempt to find meaning in distressing experiences.

Question 8

What is the deficit view of delusions?

Answer 8

Delusions may result from dysfunctional brain activation due to neurotransmitter imbalances.

Question 9

What are the diagnostic criteria for schizophrenia?

Answer 9

At least two of the following: delusions, hallucinations, disorganized speech, grossly disorganized or catatonic behavior, negative symptoms.

Question 10

How long must symptoms persist for a diagnosis of Schizophreniform Disorder?

Answer 10

Symptoms must last at least 1 month but less than 6 months.

Question 11

What distinguishes Schizoaffective Disorder from mood disorders with psychotic features?

Answer 11

In Schizoaffective Disorder, psychotic features are present for at least 2 weeks in the absence of mood episodes.

Question 12

What environmental factors may increase the risk of schizophrenia?

Answer 12

Prenatal viral exposure, birth complications, urban living, minority stress, substance use.

Question 13

What is the heritability estimate for schizophrenia?

Answer 13

Approximately 80%.

Question 14

What role do neurotransmitters play in schizophrenia?

Answer 14

Dopamine and glutamate are implicated in symptom development and brain functioning.

Question 15

What is the first-line treatment for schizophrenia?

Answer 15

Medication, typically neuroleptics/antipsychotics that are primarily dopamine antagonists.

Question 16

What are common side effects of antipsychotic medications?

Answer 16

Extrapyramidal symptoms, akathisia, akinesia, tardive dyskinesia, weight gain, drowsiness.

Question 17

How does psychotherapy aid individuals with schizophrenia?

Answer 17

It helps with medication adherence, managing symptoms, cognitive function, psychosocial functioning, and provides a safe space for discussion.

Question 18

What is Cognitive Behaviour Therapy for Psychosis (CBTp)?

Answer 18

A form of therapy aimed at psychoeducation and reducing distress, often involving direct work with delusional beliefs.

Question 19

What is Narrative Enhancement and Cognitive Therapy (NECT)?

Answer 19

Group therapy focused on psychoeducation, cognitive restructuring, and sharing experiences to reduce stigma and improve self-esteem.

Question 20

What should be considered in diagnosing schizophrenia?

Answer 20

Cultural factors, as some experiences may be misdiagnosed as psychotic symptoms.