Schizophrenia

Often considered the most serious psychological disorders Characterized by loss of contact with reality Often leads to an inability to function independently in society Symptoms usually start in young adulthood

Paranoid Schizophrenia Disorganized Schizophrenia Types Paranoid Schizophrenia Disorganized Schizophrenia Catatonic Schizophrenia

Major Symptoms Hallucinations- false sensations (auditory, visual, tactile, gustatory, smell) Delusions- false beliefs and thoughts Delusions of persecution Delusions of grandeur Delusions of jealousy Positive Symptoms- added experiences (compared to average person) ex- seeing things, hearing voices Negative Symptoms- loss of experience (compared to average person) ex- lack of emotional response, not feeling emotions

Paranoid Schizophrenia Delusions and hallucinations often relate to common theme Auditory hallucinations are common Delusions of persecution, grandeur and jealousy are common Often agitated and afraid

Disorganized Schizophrenia Incoherent thoughts, speech and behavior Delusions and hallucinations- but disconnected Often emotionless or inappropriate emotions Often neglect hygiene and appearance “word salad” – incoherent, rhythmic speech

Catatonic Schizophrenia Disturbance of movement Catatonic stupor- an immobile, expressionless, coma-like state Waxy flexibility- can be moved into a position that they will hold for hours

Causes? Multifactoral model- combination of factors Genetic factors Stress Parenting Viral infections Pregnancy and birth complications