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.
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.
COMBINED TREATMENTS FOR SCHIZOPHRENIA
Integrated Treatment
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.
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.
COMBINED TREATMENTS FOR SCHIZOPHRENIA
Integrated Treatment
