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Schizophrenia Spectrum Disorders


Kat  Thomson
Lesson by Kat Thomson
Magoosh Expert

Summary
The content provides an in-depth exploration of schizophrenia, covering its classification, symptoms, prevalence, risk factors, physiological aspects, and treatments. It aims to dispel common misconceptions and offers a more nuanced understanding of the condition.
  • Schizophrenia is a serious and chronic mental condition with a prevalence of about 1%, characterized by distortions in perception, thought, and communication.
  • Symptoms are categorized into positive, negative, cognitive, and mood symptoms, with positive symptoms being the most striking and commonly associated with schizophrenia.
  • Risk factors include genetic predisposition and environmental influences, with a notable mention of the potential role of cannabis use in young teens.
  • Physiological correlates involve an underactive frontal lobe, overactive parietal lobe, and abnormal dopamine levels, contributing to the condition's complexity.
  • Treatments include antipsychotics, which primarily act as dopamine antagonists, and social and behavioral therapies aimed at helping individuals cope with symptoms and lead fulfilling lives.
Chapters
00:01
Understanding Schizophrenia
03:32
Symptoms and Diagnosis
08:56
Risk Factors and Prevalence
10:45
Physiological Aspects
13:00
Treatment Approaches

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Please excuse my voice in this lesson! Recorded while recovering from a cold. ~ Kat      

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