Symptoms and neurocognition as rate limiters in skills training for psychotic patients.
OBJECTIVE
This study aimed to replicate findings that neurocognitive capacity in schizophrenia is more predictive of acquisition of social skills than are symptoms.


METHODS
Thirty-two hospitalized patients with chronic psychotic disorders were randomly assigned to community reintegration skills training or supportive group therapy. Neurocognitive functioning was assessed before treatment, and symptoms and skill levels were measured before and after treatment.


RESULTS
The skills training group showed significantly greater skill acquisition. In a regression model, skill acquisition was predicted by group membership and verbal memory capacity and not by symptoms.


CONCLUSIONS
With methodological advances, the authors replicated findings regarding the importance of neurocognition in determining treatment outcome in schizophrenia.
Smith
T E
TE
Weill Medical College of Cornell University, New York Presbyterian Hospital, Westchester Division, White Plains 10605, USA. ths2006@mail.med.cornell.edu
Hull
J W
JW
Romanelli
S
S
Fertuck
E
E
Weiss
K A
KA
D003072:Cognition Disorders / Q000175:diagnosis* / Q000523:psychology / Q000534:rehabilitation*; D015928:Cognitive Behavioral Therapy; D006801:Humans; D008570:Memory, Short-Term; D008960:Models, Psychological; D011615:Psychotherapy, Group; D011618:Psychotic Disorders / Q000175:diagnosis / Q000523:psychology / Q000534:rehabilitation; D012044:Regression Analysis; D012559:Schizophrenia / Q000175:diagnosis* / Q000534:rehabilitation*; D012565:Schizophrenic Psychology; D016896:Treatment Outcome