Other Issues with Classification

• Other issues of SZ D+C:

  1. Comorbidity 2. Symptom Overlap 3. Gender bias 4. Cultural bias
• What is comorbidity?

  The presence of two or more mental disorders in a person at the same time.
• Why does comorbidity cause an issue of validity of classification?

  The overlap may stem from difficulties in distinguishing between the conditions, suggesting that they may not be distinct disorders. In cases where symptoms of one condition strongly resemble those of another, it may indicate that they should be considered part of a single underlying condition rather than separate diagnoses.
• Who conducted a study on Schizophrenia and comorbidity?

  Buckley et al.
• In Buckley’s study, how many sz patients also had depression?

  50 %
• In Buckley’s study, how many sz patients also had history of substance abuse?

  47 %
• In Buckley’s study, how many sz patients also had PTSD?

  29 %
• In Buckley’s study, how many sz patients also had OCD?

  23 %
• What is symptom overlap?

  When different medical or mental health conditions share similar symptoms. For example, both depression and anxiety might cause trouble sleeping or feeling restless.
• Example of symptom overlap in SZ

  SZ and bipolar disorder both share positive symptoms (delusions) and negative symptoms (Avolition )
• Symptom overlap may result to misdiagnosis between the two disorders. This may lead to delay in treatment (degeneration and suicide risk)
• How does culture bias impact diagnosis of sz?

  Each country has its own culture which influences norms and values. This impacts how clinicians are taught and their interpretations of symptoms and use of diagnostic tools
• Example of a cultural difference that may impact sz diagnosis

  Hearing voices is more acceptable in African cultures due to the belief of communications with ancestors and could be considered a process in grieving
• Who found that those of West Indian Origin were over diagnosed with SZ by white doctors in Bristol?

  Harrison et al.
• British people of African-Carribean origin are 9 times more likely to be diagnosed with sz compared with white people. Diagnosis in African-Carribean countries are not typically high which rules out genetic vulnerability This suggests ethnocentrism of clinicians.