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Executive dysfunction in schizophrenia: Predictors of the discrepancy between subjective and objective measures
Ingvild Haugen1,2, Jan Stubberud2,3, Torill Ueland2,4
1Research Division, Innlandet Hospital Trust, P.O. Box 104, 2381 Brumunddal, Norway.
Schizophrenia Research. Cognition
|June 30, 2021
Summary
Individuals with schizophrenia experiencing less subjective executive dysfunction had higher self-efficacy and disorganized symptoms. Low self-efficacy indicates underutilization of executive functions in daily life.
Area of Science:
- Neuroscience
- Psychiatry
- Cognitive Psychology
Background:
- Executive functions are crucial for daily living.
- Schizophrenia often involves executive dysfunction.
- Discrepancies between subjective and objective executive function are common in schizophrenia.
Purpose of the Study:
- To identify characteristics of individuals with schizophrenia who report more or less subjective executive dysfunction compared to objective performance.
- To explore predictors of the discrepancy between subjective and objective executive function in schizophrenia spectrum disorders.
Main Methods:
- Sixty-six participants with schizophrenia spectrum disorders underwent comprehensive executive function assessment.
- Objective executive function was measured using neuropsychological tests.
- Subjective executive function was assessed via a self-report questionnaire covering inhibition, shifting, and working memory.
Main Results:
- Higher self-efficacy was the strongest predictor of fewer subjective cognitive complaints relative to objective performance.
- Higher levels of disorganized symptoms also predicted fewer subjective complaints.
- Higher estimated IQ correlated with greater reported subjective working memory difficulties despite better objective performance.
- Depressive symptoms did not predict the discrepancy between subjective and objective executive function.
Conclusions:
- Low self-efficacy may identify individuals with schizophrenia unable to leverage their executive functions in daily life.
- Cognitive remediation for schizophrenia should incorporate interventions to enhance self-efficacy.
- Disorganized symptoms can help identify individuals who overestimate their executive skills and may benefit from increased insight into their cognitive deficits.
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