Related Experiment Video
Updated: Aug 23, 2026

Handwriting Analysis Indicates Spontaneous Dyskinesias in Neuroleptic Naïve Adolescents at High Risk for Psychosis
Published on: November 21, 2013
Earlier age of first diagnosis in schizophrenia is related to impaired motor control
Theo C Manschreck1, Brendan A Maher, Steven F Candela
1Corrigan Mental Health Center, Harvard Medical School, 49 Hillside St., Fall River, MA 02720, USA. Theo.Manschreck@dmh.state.ma.us
Abstract:
We examined the control of motor behavior in relation to age of first diagnosis (AFD; an approximation of age of onset) in schizophrenia. We hypothesized that earlier AFD reflects increased vulnerability to the disorder, vulnerability that may be indexed by elevated levels of motor abnormality. AFD, symptom and demographic features, motor performance on a line drawing task, and the presence and severity of dyskinesia and extrapyramidal side effects were evaluated in 65 chronic schizophrenia subjects. More severely impaired motor control was significantly related to an earlier age of diagnosis. Potential confounds, including age, gender, education, length of illness, current medication dosage, symptom status, and motor side effects, did not appear to influence this relationship, although greater chronicity appeared to be independently related to more severely impaired motor control. In summary, the data are consistent with the hypothesis that an earlier AFD is associated with more pronounced motor impairment.
More Related Videos
Related Concept Videos
Biological Causes of Schizophrenia
Genetic Factors in Schizophrenia
The genetic basis of schizophrenia is strongly supported by family and twin studies.
Autism Spectrum Disorder
These core symptoms manifest differently among individuals, ranging from mild to severe. The disorder's complexity extends beyond its clinical presentation, encompassing a diverse range of biological, cognitive, and sociocultural influences.
Parkinson Disease l: Introduction
Alzheimer Disease l: Introduction
Huntington Disease l: Introduction
Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder
Diagnostic Criteria and Symptoms
To diagnose ADHD, symptoms must manifest before age 12 and be evident across multiple settings.

