The disabilities of chronic schizophrenia--their nature and the factors contributing to their development

Five hundred and ten patients receiving long-term in-patient care for schizophrenia were examined in terms of their current mental state, cognitive functioning, neurological status and behavioural performance. The abnormalities of these areas of their present state were related to historical factors, personal details, the features of the illness at its worst and physical treatment received. Significant associations between the present state and historical factors are few and mainly concerned time and the features of the illness at its worst. Current abnormalities were not related to past physical treatment, but highly significant correlations were found between the impairments of the four areas of the present state. It is concluded that these impairments are likely to be an integral part of the disease.