Prognostic significance of cerebral status: dimensions of clinical outcome

This report examines the relationship between a set of neurobehavioral predictor variables (premorbid cognitive-perceptual abilities, sensorimotor functions, and complex integrative skills) and three dimensions of clinical outcome (social outcome, work functioning, and rehospitalization) 2 years after discharge from inpatient treatment for a group of psychiatric disorders. Results indicated the strongest relationship was between premorbid ability levels and work performance, particularly maintaining stability of employment or work role function. This finding is discussed from the standpoint of neurological processes underlying early acquisition of basic cognitive-perceptual skills in the prediction of outcome.