Clinical 12 final

What is schizophrenia believed to be?

A spectrum of multiple disorders with overlapping characteristics.

What are positive symptoms of schizophrenia?

Excesses of thought, emotion, and behavior, including delusions and hallucinations.

What are delusions in the context of schizophrenia?

Firmly held false beliefs such as persecution, reference, or grandeur.

What is disorganized thinking in schizophrenia?

Characterized by tangential speech and loose associations that complicate communication.

What are negative symptoms of schizophrenia?

Deficits in thought, emotion, and behavior, such as lack of motivation and emotional flatness.

Can you name some negative symptoms of schizophrenia?

Symptoms include poverty of speech, social withdrawal, and blunted affect.

What are cognitive impairments in schizophrenia?

Difficulties with memory, attention, and processing, common among patients.

What are psychomotor symptoms?

Abnormal movement patterns that can range from agitation to catatonia.

What are the three phases of schizophrenia?

1. Prodromal, 2. Active Phase, 3. Residual Phase.

What occurs in the prodromal phase of schizophrenia?

Subtle changes and withdrawal begin to appear.

What happens during the active phase of schizophrenia?

Clear symptoms of the disorder manifest.

What is characteristic of the residual phase of schizophrenia?

Symptoms decrease but some negative symptoms may persist.

What are some biological influences on schizophrenia?

Genetic predisposition, neurotransmitter imbalances (especially dopamine), and brain structure anomalies.

How do psychological views explain schizophrenia?

They suggest dysfunctional family environments or parenting styles may trigger symptoms in vulnerable individuals.

What are the primary treatment options for schizophrenia?

Antipsychotic medications and psychotherapy.

What are antipsychotic medications primarily aimed at?

They primarily act as dopamine antagonists.

What types of therapies are included in psychotherapy for schizophrenia?

Cognitive-behavioral therapy, family interventions, and community-based approaches.

What is the goal of combining psychotherapy with medication in schizophrenia treatment?

To enhance functioning and reduce relapse risk.

What age range typically sees the emergence of schizophrenia?

Late teens to mid-thirties.

What is the impact of neurotransmitter imbalances in schizophrenia?

They contribute significantly to the symptoms and progression of the disorder.

How can the family environment affect schizophrenia?

Dysfunctional family environments may trigger symptoms in genetically vulnerable individuals.