Schizophrenia(psychological explanations for schizophrenia)

Question 1

Family dysfunction - (Double bind theory)

Answer 1

Bateson suggested contradictory messages from parents for example when a mother tell their daughter they love them and then turn their head away in disgust, reduces the chance of a child to respond to the message and one message invalidates the other. Shown to prevent development of an internal coherent construction of reality which can manifest in schizophrenic symptoms.

Question 2

Family dysfunction - (Expressed emotions)

Answer 2

Negative emotional environments where there is a high degree of hostility and criticism towards the individuals. Relatives of the sufferer tend to talk more and listen less about the individual. A patient returning to a high EE family show 4 times more likely to show relapse rate. Suggests that schizophrenics have a low tolerance rate for intense environmental stimuli.

Question 3

Evidence for linking family dysfunction to schizophrenia -

Answer 3

Measurements of family dysfunction may be derived by insecure attachment, Adults with schizophrenia are seen more likely to have schizophrenia. Where research has shown 69% of women and 59% of men with schizophrenia have history of physical/sexual abuse. Individuals with schizophrenia have also reported at least one incident of at least one childhood trauma. Suggesting types of family dysfunction present a correlation of vulnerability with schizophrenia.