Schizophrenia Spectrum and Psychotic Disorders

These flashcards cover key concepts related to schizophrenia spectrum and psychotic disorders, including definitions, symptoms, interventions, and diagnostic criteria.

What is schizophrenia?

A complex mental health condition affecting thinking, perception, and behavior, often misunderstood as 'split mind'.

Typical onset age for schizophrenia symptoms

Early adulthood, often in the early 20s.

What are common symptoms of schizophrenia?

Hallucinations, delusions, disorganized thinking, and difficulty interpreting reality.

How many symptoms are required for a schizophrenia diagnosis according to the DSM-5?

At least 2 symptoms for at least 1 month, with one being delusions, hallucinations, or disorganized speech.

What is a delusion?

A false belief that is firmly held despite evidence to the contrary.

What is a hallucination?

A false perception, such as seeing or hearing things that aren't there.

What constitutes disorganized speech?

Talking in ways that are hard to follow, such as jumping between unrelated topics.

What are negative symptoms of schizophrenia?

Absence of normal behaviors, such as flat affect or social withdrawal.

Duration for schizophrenia symptoms to qualify for diagnosis?

Symptoms must last for at least 6 months.

What is the prodromal period in schizophrenia?

The time between early signs and full diagnostic criteria.

What is schizoaffective disorder?

A condition that combines features of schizophrenia with mood disorders.

When can schizoaffective disorder be diagnosed?

It cannot be diagnosed during the first psychotic episode.

What biological factors contribute to schizophrenia?

Polygenetic condition with multiple genes involved and family history increasing risk.

What is cortical thinning?

Thinning of the cerebral cortex, particularly in the frontal and temporal lobes, associated with schizophrenia.

What is hypofrontality?

Reduced blood flow to the frontal lobe, impacting thinking and problem-solving.

What is the dopamine hypothesis?

Excess dopamine activity linked to psychotic symptoms in schizophrenia.

What environmental factors may contribute to schizophrenia risk?

Urban living, minority status, cannabis use, and prenatal complications.

What is the prevalence of schizophrenia in the population?

Affects approximately 0.3-0.7% of the population.

What health concerns are associated with schizophrenia?

Higher rates of morbidity and mortality, poor diet, low physical activity, and high smoking rates.

What are common cognitive impairments in schizophrenia?

Slowed processing speed, executive function difficulties, memory problems, reduced verbal fluency, and social cognition challenges.

What are the limitations of antipsychotic medications?

Limited effect on negative symptoms and cognitive impairments, with side effects such as weight gain.

What is a person-centered OT approach?

Creating individualized occupational profiles focusing on clients' strengths, challenges, goals, interests, and values.

What assessments are used in OT for schizophrenia?

Kohlman Evaluation of Living Skills, Assessment of Motor and Process Skills, and Sensory Processing Measure.

What is the goal of the OT intervention?

To enhance clients' ability to perform daily activities independently.

What does it mean to grade activities in OT?

Adjust the difficulty level of activities to match the client's abilities.

What is an example of a cognitive strategy in OT?

Using checklists or step-by-step instructions to support memory and attention.

What are some barriers to consider in OT practice?

Socioeconomic factors, stigma, and personal biases while focusing on meaningful occupations.

How can stigma affect individuals with schizophrenia?

It can lead to negative attitudes, labeling, and discrimination against those with mental illness.

What does 'holistic approach' mean in OT?

Considering all aspects of a person's life, including physical, mental, emotional, social, and environmental factors.

What is reduced motivation in schizophrenia?

A decrease in the drive to engage in enjoyable activities or daily tasks.

What does social withdrawal mean in the context of schizophrenia?

Pulling away from social interactions and avoiding friends or group activities.

What are executive function difficulties?

Challenges in planning, organizing, and problem-solving.

What is an example of disorganized behavior in schizophrenia?

Acting unpredictably or inappropriately, such as suddenly dancing in a quiet setting.

What is flat affect?

A reduction in emotional expression, such as speaking in a monotone voice.

What is the significance of an occupational profile?

It summarizes a client's occupational history, patterns of daily living, interests, values, and needs to guide therapy.

What interventions may be considered for clients with cognitive challenges?

Graded activities, environmental adaptations, sensory-based interventions, and ADL/IADL training.

What is the most effective treatment for positive symptoms of schizophrenia?

Antipsychotic medications.

What are the side effects of antipsychotic medications?

Weight gain, metabolic changes, and movement disorders.

What is an example of a functional assessment tool?

Kohlman Evaluation of Living Skills (KELS) to evaluate basic living skills.

What should OT practitioners be aware of regarding their biases?

Recognize and work to reduce personal biases in practice.

What types of symptoms indicate a diagnosis of schizophrenia?

Positive symptoms like hallucinations and delusions along with negative symptoms.