Methods of Modifying this Behaviour

BIOLOGICAL METHODS OF MODIFYING BEHAVIOUR IN SCHIZOPHRENIA

Antipsychotic Medication

Antipsychotic medication works by blocking the dopamine receptors in the brain and regulates the level of dopamine to alleviate symptoms.
There are two types: first-generation antipsychotics (classic) such as haloperidol, and second-generation antipsychotics (atypical) like risperidone. The latter are typically used as first-line treatment due to lower side-effects.
Both types of medication primarily help to reduce positive symptoms such as hallucinations and delusions.
However, they are usually less effective at reducing negative symptoms and cognitive symptoms of schizophrenia.

Electroconvulsive Therapy (ECT)

ECT is often used if other treatments are ineffective or if rapid symptom reduction is critical.
Despite misconceptions, modern ECT is administered under general anaesthetic and uses controlled electrical stimulation to achieve a therapeutic effect.

PSYCHOSOCIAL METHODS OF MODIFYING BEHAVIOUR IN SCHIZOPHRENIA

Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT)

CBT for schizophrenia focuses on addressing the thoughts and beliefs behind the individual’s hallucinations or delusions, and helps them to develop coping strategies.
Therapy sessions are used to identify distorted thinking patterns and challenge them with factual and logical thinking, mitigating the impact of positive symptoms.

Family Interventions

Family interventions may include psychoeducation about schizophrenia, strategies to manage symptoms, and training to improve communication and problem-solving skills within the family.
Studies have shown that family interventions may reduce hospitalisation rates and improve compliance with medication.

Social Skills Training (SST)

SST focuses on improving communication and social interactions, self-care, employment skills, and leisure activities.
The aim of SST is to minimise the impact of negative symptoms and improve functioning in daily life.

COMBINED TREATMENTS FOR SCHIZOPHRENIA

Integrated Treatment

This approach combines medication, psychological therapy, and social interventions, usually coordinated by a multi-disciplinary team.
The aim is to treat the whole person, addressing the full range of symptoms and broader impacts of the illness.
Studies suggest that this combined approach is most effective at managing symptoms and improving quality of life for people with schizophrenia.