1. Schizophrenia
Affects the way a person acts, thinks, and sees the world
Altered perception of reality, for example…
May see or hear things that don’t exist
Speak in strange or confusing ways
Believe that others are trying to harm them
Affects about 1% of the world population

2. Who is Affected
 Age of first episode is typically younger among men (about 21 years of age) than women (27 years)
In rare cases, schizophrenia can even affect young children and adolescents, although the symptoms are slightly different
The earlier it develops, the more severe it is
Also tends to be more severe in men

3. Early Signs Social withdrawal Hostility or suspiciousness
Deterioration of personal hygiene
Flat, expressionless gaze
Inability to cry or express joy
Inappropriate laughter or crying
Depression
Oversleeping or insomnia
Odd or irrational statements
Forgetful; unable to concentrate
Extreme reaction to criticism
Strange use of words or way of speaking

4. Causes Hereditary Environmental Abnormal Brain Structure
10% chance if parent or sibling has it
60% of schizophrenics have no relatives with disorder
Environmental
Stressful factors (virus exposure during pregnancy or infancy; low oxygen during birth; early parental loss/separation; childhood abuse)
Abnormal Brain Structure
Deficit in the volume of brain tissue
Low activity in the frontal lobe