[The social network of schizophrenic patients]

First, the literature is reviewed under three different perspectives: the role of social networks as etiological factor, the impact of the illness on the social relationships of the patients, and the influence of social networks on the course of schizophrenic disorders. Then, results of an empirical study of social relationships of schizophrenic patients, using the 'Interview Schedule for Social Interaction' developed by Henderson et al., are presented. Compared to the ideal norm as well as to normal people and other patient groups the social network of schizophrenic patients showed marked deficits.