The Sociocultural Factors Explanation

Question 1

What 3 sociocultural factors contribute to the onset of schizophrenia?

Answer 1

Life events, urbanicity, social isolation.

Question 2

Describe the findings of life events.

Answer 2

• 50% experienced a major life event 3 weeks before schizophrenic episode.
• 12% reported 9 weeks prior.
• Hirsch et al in 48-week longitudinal study found collection of life events results in schizophrenia.
• Stressful life events linked to biochemical changes

Question 3

Describe the findings of urbanicity.

Answer 3

• Van Os found higher rate of schizophrenia in those born and raised in urban areas.
• Living in densely populated area causes poor social conditions which raise stress.
• Krabbendam and Van Os stated that drug abuse, poor income, pollution, overcrowding and poor education are difficulties.
• We have not evolved to live in densely populated urban areas.

Question 4

Describe the findings of social isolation.

Answer 4

• Schizophrenics find social contact stressful so become asocial
• This social isolation doesn’t allow for feedback on behaviour, so worsens symptoms.
• A strong social network allows for behaviour to be challenger.
• Jones et al investigated those who played alone at 4-6 years old, found by age 13 they were less socially confident.
• Lack of positive social interaction results in anxiety and stress.

Question 5

Name 2 strengths of the sociocultural factors explanation.

Answer 5

Can be used in diathesis-stress model to explain incomplete genetic explanation.

Evidence to support (Jones et al).

Question 6

Name 2 weaknesses of the sociocultural factors explanation.

Answer 6

Falkai et al, 1988. Dopamine alone.

Cause + effect, schizophrenics have small friend groups so struggle to make friends, but is social isolation a result of schizophrenia, or vice versa?