ABSTRACT
In our archival-observational study of the precursors of schizophrenia, we are using childhood home-movies, as well as other sources of data, to identify the very earliest signs of vulnerability. This research takes a developmental approach in that it assumes that the neuropathological process subserving schizophrenia is a gradually unfolding one whose manifestations vary as the individual matures. The ultimate goal is to document the developmental course as a foundation for generating neurodevelopmental models of etiology. In this presentation, we will report on the results of our preliminary analyses of neuromotor functions from the first to the 15th year of life. Neuromotor functions are considered important because their development is reflective of the integrity of the central nervous system. Moreover, findings from high-risk research suggest that abnormalities in early motor development may characterise children at risk for schizophrenia.
