SCHIZOPHRENIA ( Family therapy)

Question 1

Define Family Therapy

Answer 1

Family therapy is a psychological intervention aimed at helping both the person with schizophrenia and their family manage the condition. It is based on the idea that the family environment can play a role in the onset and relapse of schizophrenia , through expressed emotion ( EE)

Question 2

Outline the structure and key features of family therapy

Answer 2

Psychoeducation : educates the family about schizophrenia , it’s symptoms , and it’s treatment to reduce misunderstandings

Reducing EE : Helps reduce levels of criticism, hostility and emotional over-involvement - all linked to higher relapse rates

Improved communication and problem solving : encourages more constructive communication and supports healthy emotional expression

Support for carers : recognises the strain on family members and provides them with coping strategies

Long-term management : Often includes relapse prevention strategies and maintenance of treatment compliance

Structure :
Usually includes 6-12 sessions over 3-12 months , involving the patient and family members .

May be conducted alongside medication ( eg. antipsychotics ) as part of a holistic approach

Question 3

Evaluate the role of family therapy in treating Schizophrenia

Answer 3

STRENGTHS :

Effective at reducing relapse rates : Pharoah et al conducted a meta- analysis and found that family therapy significantly reduces the risk of relapse and hospital readmission compared to standard care alone.
Shows that therapy can enhance treatment outcomes , particularly when used with medication

Improves medication compliance : Family members who are better informed can support and encourage patients to adhere to their drug regimens. Promotes a more supportive environment , reducing conflict and improving overall outcomes

Supports the whole family : recognises that schizophrenia affects not just the individual but also those around them . Providing support to family members can reduce care-giver stress and prevent burnout.

Cost-effective in the long run : While family therapy can be expensive initially , it can save costs by reducing relapse , hospitalisation , and crisis intervention. NHS support family intervention as part of care packages for this reason

LIMITATIONS :

Not a cure : Family therapy does not address the biological causes of schizophrenia. Should be seen as adjunct therapy - helpful when combined with antipsychotic medication , not as a standalone solution

Variability in Outcomes : Effectiveness can vary depending on family dynamics , level of engagement and quality of the therapist. Some families may be unwilling to participate or may resist therapeutic interventions.

Cultural differences : The concept of expressed emotion and family roles varies across cultures. Western models of family therapy may be less applicable in collectivist or non-Western cultures.