COGNITIVE THERAPY OF SCHIZOPHRENIA - THEORY AND EMPIRICAL STATUS

The empirical status of cognitive approaches to schizophrenia is presented. A review of outcome studies identifies patient characteristics, describes treatment components, delineates outcome and follow-up status (if available), and considers commonalties among therapy components. A ''clinical section,'' synthesized largely from the successful outcome studies, presents cognitive therapy principles and strategies adapted to treatment of schizophrenia. Theoretical issues, such as ecological validity and the necessity to target both disordered cognitive content and processing, are briefly addressed. Finally, eight ''burning questions'' or issues for future research are suggested.