Differentiation of schizophrenics with and without brain damage using the Whitaker Index of Schizophrenic Thinking

Assessed the efficacy of the Whitaker Index of Schizophrenic Thinking, Form A, in differentiating schizophrenics with and without brain damage. Two groups of 26 state hospital residents each were selected on the basis of evidence of schizophrenia and (or lack of evidence) of brain damage. Results indicated that at least one subtest, total time, and Index significantly discriminated between groups. Additionally, a cut-off index reliably discriminated schizophrenics with brain damage. Discussed were implications for diagnosis and treatment of the populations examined as well as the relationship between brain dysfunction and cognitive processes of schizophrenia.