Treatments for Sz

Question 1

when were typical drugs invented

Answer 1

1950s examples are chloropromazine. these have lots of side effects.

Question 2

when were atypical drugs invented

Answer 2

1990s, examples are clozapine

Question 3

how do antipsychotic drugs work

Answer 3

help reduce levels of dopamine by blocking receptors in the areas associated with Sz.

Question 4

how are atypical drugs different from typical drugs

Answer 4

they do no bind so tightly to the receptors as well as they block serotonin receptors which has helped reduce side effects of typical drugs.

Question 5

what is an issue with drug treatment for those who have had Sz for many years

Answer 5

can fail to bring relief as significant brain changes due to the condition cannot be fixed by drugs

Question 6

strengths of drug treatment for Sz

Answer 6

• 17/19 of the drugs had better affects that the placebo showing good empirical data
• has helped people get out of institutions and lead a normal life

Question 7

weaknesses of drug treatment for Sz

Answer 7

• overgeneralisation of animal studies, animals can be given higher doses of medication to make sure receptors are blocked making it lack replicability.
• has publication bias, clinicians can be wrongly handing out drugs based on publications.
• research shows that people that take drugs are still unable to function everyday, even if they did reduce relapse rates.

Question 8

what is CBT

Answer 8

a therapy that uses both the cognitive approach and learning theories to help change behaviours

Question 9

what are the main features of CBT for Sz

Answer 9

• patients can be taught how to make sense of their hallucinations and delusions and how they impact on their feelings and behaviours
• therapists can help clients understand why they have delusions and hallucinations as a way to help reduce anxiety
• evidence of the clients delusions can be collected fr them to be challenged, helping the client differentiate between ‘confirmed reality’ and ‘perceived reality’
• therapists can help show how patients have a greater sense of self above being Sz reducing the stigmatisation.

Question 10

what are strengths of CBT for Sz

Answer 10

• Nice found that CBT was effective in reducing rehospitalisation rates for patients.
• also it helps patients with independent living and being able to cope with their delusions and hallucinations.
• lastly is can help patients who are drug resistant or be a second line of defence for those who are also taking drugs treatments.

Question 11

what are weaknesses of CBT for Sz

Answer 11

• McKenna found that CBT only came out on top 2/9 times when put against other types of therapies.
• further, a lot of dedication is needed for CBT to work and cooperation is needed which may not be possible for all patients.