Classification and Diagnosis

Question 1

What is one problem with reliability and validity?

Answer 1

There is symptom overlap which is where two or more conditions share similar symptoms e.g both sz and depression share negative symptoms such as avolition

Question 2

What does symptom overlap question?

Answer 2

The validity and reliability because an individual may be diagnosed with the wrong disorder which is an issue as doctors may not be diagnosing schizophrenia correctly and therefore might not receive appropriate treatment - negative affect on accuracy and consistency

Question 3

What is a further problem with diagnosis and classification?

Answer 3

Co-mordibity which is where two illnesses/conditions occur at the same time

Question 4

What did Buckley et al find?

Answer 4

Concluded that 50% of patients diagnosed with schizophrenia also have a diagnosis of depression and 23% of patients with sz are also diagnosed with OCD

Question 5

What is a problem with co-morbidity?

Answer 5

The two conditions may be better seen as one and doctors may diagnose the wrong condition

Question 6

What is another issue?

Answer 6

Gender bias

Question 7

What findings have been linked to gender bias?

Answer 7

Since the 1980s men have been diagnosed with sz more often than women. This may be because men are more genetically vulnerable to developing sz. However it could be because females with sz typically function better, being more likely to work and have good family relationships - masked by good interpersonal skills

Question 8

Why is gender bias a problem?

Answer 8

Women may not receive the same diagnosis as men as their symptoms may seem mild