Schizophrenia in Children and Adolescents

Schizophrenia is a serious mental illness and its onset during childhood and adolescence is usually indicative of a more perilous course with a poorer prognosis. Childhood and adolescence typically include developmental challenges that are complicated by hallucinations, delusions, and changes in behavior. Though rare, childhood-onset schizophrenia still occurs, and accurate diagnosis is therefore necessary for appropriate treatment.

After reading the article “Schizophrenia in Children and Adolescents,” consider the question(s) below. Then “submit” your response.

Question 1

According to the National Institute of Mental Health, how many children experience an onset of schizophrenia symptoms prior to the age of 13?

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Question 2

What is the acronym for the multisite research project that is studying different factors that improve a young person’s chances of recovery in the early stages of schizophrenia?

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Question 3

Which term below refers to a person with a psychiatric illness being unable to acknowledge or see that he or she is ill?

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Question 4

What can we learn from children and adolescents with schizophrenia?

One possible answer might be studying these children and adolescents can allow researchers to see the developmental brain changes from, and the course of, the illness.

Question 5

What are at least two treatment options for children and adolescents with schizophrenia?

One possible answer might be, first, psychiatric medications (such as atypical antipsychotics) and family education, and, second, cognitive-behavioral therapy.