Perceived vulnerability, relapse risk and coping in schizophrenia. An explorative study.
Patients suffering from schizophrenia are faced with numerous adaptational demands as a consequence of their illness. Both directly perceived vulnerability and knowledge about precipitating factors deducted from the experience of recurrent relapses were assessed in a group of chronic schizophrenics. In addition, self-administered coping with symptoms and attempts to prevent relapses were explored. Most patients were aware of both aspects of vulnerability towards social-emotional and cognitive stressors and took various precautions to avoid relapse or to control symptoms. Results are discussed within the context of a theoretical model of coping with schizophrenia.
Central Institute of Mental Health, Mannheim, Federal Republic of Germany.
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Thurm
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Haefner
D000223:Adaptation, Psychological; D000328:Adult; D002908:Chronic Disease; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D008875:Middle Aged; D008960:Models, Psychological; D010465:Perception; D012008:Recurrence; D012307:Risk Factors; D012559:Schizophrenia / Q000517:prevention & control*; D012565:Schizophrenic Psychology