Schizophrenia is a mental health condition characterized by broad impairments in cognition that place profound limitations on functional recovery. Social work has an enduring legacy in pioneering the development of novel psychosocial interventions for people with schizophrenia, and in this article the author introduces cognitive remediation, the…

Overdiagnosis or misdiagnosis of schizophrenia among African American clients is a longstanding and critical disparity in mental health services. Overdiagnosis of schizophrenia is detrimental because it increases the potential for treatment with the wrong medications. Inadequate assessment of mood disorders, co-occurring substance abuse, and…

One-day "family survival" psychoeducation workshops are a promising, convenient method of disseminating basic information to families with a relative who is diagnosed with a serious mental illness such as schizophrenia, major depression, or other affective disorders. At five separate psychoeducation workshops, 83 participating families completed…

This study found that the families of schizophrenics contend with formidable emotional burdens and recommend that social supports and services be created to help minimize their distress. (Author)

In 1974, categorical aid programs administered by the states were replaced by the federal Supplemental Security Income (SSI) program. After discussing SSI's provision of income support for the mentally ill, the authors examine the social, psychiatric, and policymaking implications of providing income assistance through SSI to those labeled as…

Reviews aftercare for schizophrenic individuals who have been discharged as a result of deinstitutionalization. Focuses on the nature of the problems caused by deinstitutionalization, the professional response, various aftercare milieus, family treatment modalities, and the clinical process. (Author/ABB)

Outlines the recent biological findings regarding schizophrenia and presents a model for social work interventions with schizophrenic individuals and their families. (Author/ABB)

Presents a new, short, self-administered questionnaire that assesses the quality of life in seven areas. Evidence for the reliability and validity of the questionnaire was based on data gathered from 971 clients; results indicate instrument reliability. The questionnaire features low-cost administration and valid psychometric properties. (RJM)

Describes a therapy group composed of young adult male schizopaths, or chronic schizophrenics, who often present as character-disordered or sociopathic. Describes formation, accomplishments, and limitations of the group; gives case histories of clients; discusses roles for leaders; and provides recommendations. (NRB)

Examines the nature of the subjective experience of schizophrenic individuals (N=54) during symptom-fluctuation episodes, what the individuals perceived as the most important symptom fluctuations during those episodes, and what the individuals perceived as causing the fluctuations. The findings suggest that mental-health professionals should be…

Addresses the issue of educational interventions for families of the chronically mentally ill. Advocates that, because of their psychosocial orientation and case management expertise, social workers are best qualified as family educators. Recommends covering diagnostic and medication issues, information on social service networks, an overview of…