Nature and Nurture - Schizophrenia

These flashcards cover key concepts related to schizophrenia, including its symptoms, biological underpinnings, processing methods, and parental challenges.

Schizophrenia

A mental disorder characterized by delusions, hallucinations, disordered thinking, and inappropriate emotions.

Delusions

Thoughts inconsistent with reality often experienced in schizophrenia.

Hallucinations

Sensory experiences that occur without an external stimulus, commonly associated with schizophrenia.

Disordered thinking

A hallmark of schizophrenia where logical thought processes are disrupted.

Biological risk factors of schizophrenia

The likelihood of developing schizophrenia which is 40-50% if an identical twin is affected, 10% if a sibling or parent is affected, and 17% in non-identical twins.

Gene loci involvement in schizophrenia

Possibly 108 gene loci are involved, contributing to symptoms and often overlapping with genes linked to mood disorders and ADHD.

Dopamine

A neurotransmitter involved in the symptoms of schizophrenia.

Glutamate

Another neurotransmitter likely involved in the pathology of schizophrenia.

Bottom up processing

Perceptions formed from combining inputs about basic features; used when unfamiliar with something.

Top down processing

Interpretation of sensory information based on prior knowledge and expectations; used with familiar experiences.

Challenges for American parents

1. Pressure to have ideal children, 2. Lack of norms and support sources, 3. Fear of danger and threats.