Expressed emotion: A review of the critical literature

Abstract

Expressed Emotion (EE) reflects the attitude of a close relative towards a schizophrenic family member. Work carried out over the last decade has provided good evidence that the concept of EE is both valid and reliable. It is, moreover, an accurate predictor of relapse in schizophrenic patients. Since Kuipers's review of the area 6 years ago (Kuipers, 1979), research into EE has progressed rapidly. Not only have there been additional studies replicating, the previously well documented relationship between EE of family members and relapse in schizophrenic patients, but issues relating to the interaction of EE with life events, its psychophysiological correlates, and to intervention procedures have also been explored. In view of these recent developments a reevaluation of the area is necessary. This article will, therefore, review the progress made in the field to date and, in addition, suggest new directions for subsequent research.