Chapter 20 - Conceptualization and Treatment of Childhood-onset Schizophrenia

Abstract

This chapter delineates conceptualization and treatment of childhood-onset schizophrenia. Schizophrenia is the most severe of functional mental disorders. Individuals suffering from schizophrenia experience deficits and dysfunctions in cognition, affect, behavior, and interpersonal relations. Treatment of individuals with schizophrenia makes up the majority of the expense. Indirect costs, such as lost productivity for patients and their family members, have been estimated at many times as mere direct costs. Schizophrenia with onset before age 14 is rare, it may be particularly costly to society due to its early onset, potential for severe dysfunction over a longer time period, and greater direct and indirect costs. Childhood- and adult-onset schizophrenia appears to represent the same illness or set of illnesses. Examination of treatment efficacy studies with adult schizophrenics, research on course in childhood- onset schizophrenia, and conceptualization using vulnerability stress models provide some guidance for developing treatment approaches with this population. Finally, management of schizophrenia in youth generally requires a range of resources and treatment providers.