Psychological Treatments for Schizophrenia Flashcards
(9 cards)
Cognitive Behavioural Therapy
SZ results from dysfunctional thought processes
ABC(DE) Model by Ellis
Reality testing
ABC (DE) Model by Ellis
Therapists role is to identify and challenge irrational beliefs by logically disputing (D) the reality of the faulty cognitions (delusions), then cognitively restructuring those beliefs into alternatives (Effect E)
Reality Testing
Process in which patient can demonstrate that their irrational thoughts are not real
Family Therapy (3)
Attempts to improve the home situation of the person with SZ where family dysfunction can increase the risk of relapse into SZ
FT is family centred and intends to change the whole families behaviour
Family is educated on symptoms and develops techniques to reduce conflict and stress and improve problem solving skills
Token Economies (4)
Based on operant conditioning, tokens are used positive reinforcement
Patients awarded when they show a pre-defined target (eg washing)
These are progressively changed in an effort to reach the ideal
Tokens are exchanged for something that they want (eg chocolate)
CBT Evaluations
Sensky (2000) Patients who resisted drug treatments had reduced positive and negative symptoms after 19 CBT sessions
High cost of trained therapist means drug therapy is cheaper
Positive Family Therapy Evaluations
Leff (1985) reviewed aftercare of SZ patients
50% of patients with standard outpatient care relapsed within 9 months
Compared to only 8% who received family therapy
Negative Evaluations of Family Therapy
FT not a cure for the disorder as symptoms, while more manageable, still remain
Token Economies Evaluations
Dickerson (2005) found token economies improve the adaptive behaviour of people with SZ
Only attempt to manage the adaptive behaviour (eg poor motivation) and don’t directly treat SZ
