Psychological explanations for schizophrenia

Jade has been diagnosed with schizophrenia. Her parents tell her they care about her but also complain that she is too dependent. They watch Jade closely, criticising her behaviour, and often argue about how they should treat her. Jade says her mother makes her feel uncomfortable and unloved, almost as if she was a stranger.

Discuss family dysfunction as an explanation for schizophrenia. Refer to Jade in your answer.

Jay has schizophrenia. His speech is rapid and confused and he changes constantly from one idea to something completely different. Jay’s father was treated for mental health problems when he was younger. Jay’s mother worries excessively about Jay. She often criticises his behaviour and tells him what to do. Jay’s doctor prescribes medication which seems to reduce his symptoms.

Discuss one or more explanations for schizophrenia. Refer to Jay in your answer.

Outline a cognitive explanation for schizophrenia and outline one limitation of this explanation.

Evaluate one psychological explanation for schizophrenia.

Outline one or more biological explanation(s) for schizophrenia. Compare biological explanation(s) for schizophrenia with the family dysfunction explanation for schizophrenia.

Jack has been diagnosed with schizophrenia. He describes his family background to his therapist:

‘I could never talk to mum. She fussed over me all the time. I tried to do what she said, but could never please her. One minute she seemed all affectionate and the next minute she would make nasty comments. My dad hated all the arguments and stayed out of it.’

Describe the family dysfunction explanation for schizophrenia and explain how Jack’s experiences can be linked to the family dysfunction explanation.

Briefly discuss two limitations of the family dysfunction explanation for schizophrenia.