BIOBEHAVIORAL TREATMENT AND REHABILITATION OF SCHIZOPHRENIA

The psychopathology and associated disabilities experienced by persons with schizophrenia have only Partially responded to conventional pharmacological and psychosocial treatment approaches. Biobehavioral therapy employs behavioral assessment, social learning principles, and skills training to amplify the effects of pharmacotherapy. An integrated biobehavioral therapy-aiming at early detection and treatment of schizophrenic symptoms, collaboration between patients and caregivers in managing treatment, family and social skills training, and teaching coping skills-has been documented to improve the course and outcome of schizophrenia as measured by symptom recurrence, social functioning, and quality of life. Biobehavioral therapies must be delivered in the context of continuous treatment teams, assertive case management, and a full range of medical, social, and community support services that together can optimize outcomes.