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Repetitive behaviors in chronically institutionalized schizophrenic patients
D J Luchins1, M B Goldman, M Lieb
1Department of Psychiatry, Pritzker School of Medicine, University of Chicago, IL 60637.
Schizophrenia Research
|December 1, 1992
Summary
Repetitive dysfunctional behaviors are common in chronic schizophrenia patients, impacting their health. These behaviors can be reliably measured using scales like the Elgin Behavioral Rating Scale.
Area of Science:
- Psychiatry
- Clinical Psychology
- Behavioral Science
Background:
- Repetitive dysfunctional behaviors are prevalent in chronically institutionalized schizophrenia patients.
- These behaviors contribute to significant morbidity and can be modeled in animals.
- Understanding the frequency and severity of these behaviors is crucial for patient care.
Purpose of the Study:
- To assess the frequency and severity of repetitive dysfunctional behaviors in chronic schizophrenic patients.
- To evaluate the reliability of rating these behaviors.
- To explore correlations between repetitive behaviors and demographic/hospitalization factors.
Main Methods:
- Thirty-two chronic schizophrenics on an extended treatment unit were assessed.
- The Elgin Behavioral Rating Scale was used to rate repetitive behaviors and positive/negative symptoms.
- Interrater reliability was evaluated for the behavioral ratings.
Main Results:
- 47% of patients displayed at least one severe or two moderate repetitive behaviors.
- Repetitive behaviors were positively associated with male gender, white race, and longer hospitalization.
- The mean score for repetitive behaviors was approximately two-thirds that of positive/negative symptoms.
Conclusions:
- Repetitive dysfunctional behaviors are frequently observed and reliably rated in chronically institutionalized schizophrenics.
- These behaviors represent a significant clinical issue in schizophrenia.
- Further research into the etiology and treatment of these behaviors is warranted.