Comparison of DSM-II and DSM-III schizophrenics: a longitudinal perspective.
Patients who meet DSM-III criteria for schizophrenia were compared with those who meet DSM-II, but not DSM-III, criteria. Comparisons included measures of positive symptoms, negative symptoms, and social competence both before extended hospitalization and during a 7-year follow-up. The measure of positive symptoms was the only variable that differed significantly between groups at initial assessment. Positive symptoms were more stable and predictive for DSM-III schizophrenics than for DSM-II schizophrenics. The measure of negative symptoms was the most stable and predictive variable for the DSM-II schizophrenics. Increased homogeneity for the DSM-III schizophrenics was not found for most measures.
Roff
J D
JD
Department of Psychology, Eastern Michigan University, Ypsilanti 48197.
Knight
R A
RA
Crandell
L
L
D000328:Adult; D000339:Affect; D005500:Follow-Up Studies; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D012559:Schizophrenia / Q000175:diagnosis*; D012565:Schizophrenic Psychology; D012720:Severity of Illness Index; D012919:Social Behavior; D013850:Thinking