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Updated: Aug 2, 2026
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Published on: July 4, 2013
Violence and schizophrenia: examining the evidence
Elizabeth Walsh1, Alec Buchanan, Thomas Fahy
1Section of Forensic Mental Health, Institute of Psychiatry, Denmark Hill, London. sppmemw@iop.kcl.ac.uk
Summary
People with schizophrenia have a higher risk of violence, but their contribution to societal violence is small. Addressing substance abuse is key to reducing this risk and associated stigma.
Area of Science:
- Psychiatry
- Criminology
- Epidemiology
Background:
- Schizophrenia is associated with an increased likelihood of violence compared to the general population.
- However, the proportion of societal violence attributable to schizophrenia is notably small.
Purpose of the Study:
- To critically evaluate epidemiological data on the link between violence and schizophrenia.
- To estimate the societal impact of this association.
Main Methods:
- A selective literature review focusing on the epidemiology of violence and schizophrenia.
- Calculation of population-attributable risks for violence in schizophrenia using population-based studies.
Main Results:
- Most studies confirm an association between schizophrenia and violence.
- A small, independent association is supported by recent evidence.
- Comorbid substance abuse significantly elevates this risk.
- Schizophrenia accounts for less than 10% of violent crime in society.
Conclusions:
- Shifting focus from relative to absolute risk of violence in schizophrenia can reduce stigma.
- Strategies targeting substance misuse are crucial for mitigating the small risk of violence associated with schizophrenia.
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