Schizophrenia

Definition

Schizophrenia is a chronic mental disorder characterized by delusions, hallucinations, and disorganized thinking. It significantly affects how a person feels, thinks, and behaves.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Schizophrenia is believed to be caused by a combination of genetic, brain chemistry, and environmental factors.
2. Dopamine dysregulation is strongly implicated in the pathophysiology of schizophrenia.
3. Common symptoms include hallucinations (often auditory), delusions, and cognitive impairments.
4. Neuroimaging studies often show abnormal brain structures in individuals with schizophrenia, such as enlarged ventricles.
5. Antipsychotic medications are the primary treatment for managing symptoms of schizophrenia.

Review Questions

• What neurotransmitter is most commonly associated with schizophrenia?
• List three common symptoms of schizophrenia.
• How do neuroimaging studies typically differ between individuals with and without schizophrenia?

Related terms

Psychosis: A mental condition characterized by a loss of contact with reality that may include hallucinations and delusions.

Dopamine:

A neurotransmitter involved in regulating mood and behavior; imbalances are linked to several psychiatric disorders including schizophrenia.

Antipsychotics: A class of medication used to manage psychosis, particularly in disorders like schizophrenia.