ABSTRACT
This chapter provides evidence that a psychological intervention that aims to reduce the impact of environmental stress on a person vulnerable to episodes of schizophrenia could add to the well-established benefits of long-term drug prophylaxis. The authors chose to compare the family management approach with a carefully constructed version of the patient-oriented case management approach that was provided in most clinics for the long-term care of schizophrenia. The selection of patients was made on the basis of a high risk of recurrent or persistent florid symptoms of schizophrenia in cases, owing to continued daily involvement in a stressful parental household. Patients completed baseline assessments during a period of four to eight weeks of out-patient stabilization after an acute episode of schizophrenia. Each patient and family received therapeutic interventions from a team of mental health professionals. Patients were educated about the nature of schizophrenia and the importance of drug and stress management in promoting adjustment.
