- Schizophrenia in Children
By The American Academy Of Child & Adolescent Psychiatry
- No. 49; Updated November 2004
Schizophrenia is a serious psychiatric
illness that causes strange thinking, strange feelings, and unusual
behavior. It is uncommon in children and is hard to recognize
in its early phases. The cause of schizophrenia is not known.
Current research suggests a combination of brain changes, bio-chemical,
genetic and environmental factors may be involved. Early diagnosis
and medical treatment are important. Schizophrenia is a life-long
disease that can be controlled but not cured.
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The symptoms and behavior of
children and adolescents with schizophrenia may differ from that
of adults with this illness. The following symptoms and behaviors
can occur in children or adolescents with schizophrenia:
* seeing things and hearing
voices which are not real (hallucinations),
* odd and eccentric behavior, and/or speech,
* unusual or bizarre thoughts and ideas,
* confusing television and dreams from reality,
* confused thinking,
* extreme moodiness,
* ideas that people are out to get them, or talking about
them, (paranoia)
* severe anxiety and fearfulness,
* difficulty relating to peers, and keeping friends.
* withdrawn and increased isolation,
* decline in personal hygiene |
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The behavior of children with
schizophrenia may change slowly over time. For example, children
who used to enjoy relationships with others may start to become
more shy or withdrawn and seem to be in their own world. Sometimes
youngsters will begin talking about strange fears and ideas.
They may start to cling to parents or say things which do not
make sense. These early symptoms and problems may first be noticed
by the child's school teachers.
Children with schizophrenia must
have a complete evaluation. Parents should ask their family
physician or pediatrician to refer them to a psychiatrist, preferably
a child and adolescent psychiatrist, who is specifically trained
and skilled at evaluating, diagnosing, and treating children
with schizophrenia. Children with schizophrenia need a comprehensive
treatment plan. A combination of medication, individual therapy,
family therapy, and specialized programs (school, activities,
etc.) is often necessary. Psychiatric medication can be helpful
for many of the symptoms and problems identified. These medications
require careful monitoring by a psychiatrist (preferably a child
and adolescent psychiatrist.)
For more information see Facts
For Families:
#11 The Child
With Autism
#21 Psychiatric Medication for Children
#29 Psychiatric Medication Part II: Types
#38 Bipolar Disorder in Teens
#69 Asperger’s Disorder
#85 Reactive Attachment Disorder
#52 Comprehensive Psychiatric Evaluation
See Also: Your Child (1998 Harper Collins) / Your Adolescent
(1999 Harper Collins). |
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