[Family intervention for schizophrenia based on expressed emotion (EE) research: a review of the technique and evaluation].
The present study reviews eight series of trials on psycho-social family intervention for schizophrenia based on Expressed Emotion (EE). All studies used randomized controlled trials (RCT) except one which was non-randomized controlled trial. The relapse risk ratios (intervention/control) for 9-12 months after discharge were 0 to .73 and for 24 months were .20 to .57. Taking into account the shortcomings of the studies, the authors conclude that psycho-social family intervention based on EE is effective in preventing schizophrenic relapse, and discuss four important issues: 1) For effective family intervention, methods for Japanese patients should be established from a trans-cultural view point; 2) The interaction of two or more therapeutic measures should be evaluated quantitatively; 3) The mechanisms of schizophrenic relapse prevention through family psycho-social intervention should be explored. A psycho-physiological study including skin conductance measurement is promising; 4) The authors point out the ethical aspect of family intervention, and discuss the importance of informed consent and the need to place emphasis on family's needs.
Mino
Y
Y
Department of Hygiene & Preventive Medicine, Okayama University Medical School.
Tsuda
T
T
Shigemi
J
J
Tanihara
S
S
Aoyama
H
H
Babazono
A
A
D004644:Emotions; D005196:Family Therapy / Q000379:methods*; D006801:Humans; D016032:Randomized Controlled Trials as Topic; D012008:Recurrence; D012559:Schizophrenia / Q000628:therapy*