ABSTRACT
This chapter discusses the association between obstetric complications and future psychosis. Obstetric complications and perinatal hypoxia are associated with schizophrenia, particularly in males. Attachment theory states that the clinging behaviour which young children display towards their parents is normal and biologically determined, has particular characteristics, and is especially important in psychosocial development. Parental and child factors can lead to abnormal attachment formation. In some instances insecure attachment reflects elements in the child's personality; wriggly children who do not want to hang around on the parental lap for cuddles even though the parents are loving and affectionate. Defence mechanisms are unconscious strategies that people use to deal with negative emotions. It includes repression, rationalisation, reaction formation, projection, intellectualisation, regression, brain insults, a confidingrelationship and satisfaction with social network. The presence of a confidante is known to reduce vulnerability to onset and may also protect against recurrence of depression.
