SCHIZOPHRENIA

Schizophrenia: Nature, Causes and Treatment

Schizophrenia: Nature, Causes and Treatment

Introduction

Schizophrenia is a devastating mental illness, and one of a larger class of psychotic disorders defined by the presence of delusions (false beliefs) and/or hallucinations (sensory perceptions without external sensory input). Schizophrenia was once thought to be caused by dysfunctional family interaction patterns, it is now understood that the cause of the disease is biological, while it also interacts with the environment (Gleitman, Fridlund & Reisberg 2000, p. 364).  Although a host of psychosocial, behavioral and cognitive treatments are available to treat the disease, pharmacological interventions to control the disease have proved to be most effective.

Causes of Schizophrenia

There is a strong reason to believe that significant genetic and hereditary factors are involved in the causes of schizophrenia. Many researchers are currently discovering the genetic causes of schizophrenia that transmit across generations. The probability of success increases as the genes of other complex diseases is discovered. The CT scan indicates that the fluid-filled cavities in the brains of individuals with schizophrenia tend to be larger than those that are not met due to mutation in genes (Passer & Smith 2006, p. 64).

The subjects with schizophrenia disorder often have frame of reference. It is essential to distinguish the frame of references that held with delusional conviction. These people can be superstitious or exhibit paranormal beliefs beyond the societal acceptance. Studies show that there can be perceptual disturbances due to the environment, for example, feeling that another person is present when in reality no person exists (Gleitman, Fridlund & Reisberg 2000, p. 378). The schizophrenia disorder commonly occurs with significant emotional distress. Interpersonal distancing, detachment from reality, and emotional distress directly relates with the formation of schizophrenia disorder.

Symptoms of Schizophrenia

Symptoms of schizophrenia depend on age, gender, and cultural background of a person. It is necessary to evaluate ...