Managing noncompliance in a schizophrenic patient with chronic skin disorders

A schizophrenic-diagnosed woman with a long-term history of scratching and skin problems was referred for behavioral treatment because she was not responding well to medical care and was often described as noncompliant. The treatment of noncompliance consisted of four phases: (I) direct habit modification, (II) compliance training, (III) controlling anxiety precipitants and (IV) follow-up monitoring and evaluation. After several months of treatment, the maladaptive behaviors decreased and the skin condition improved. Follow-up at six month intervals for three years indicated no recurrence of skin problems.