[Socialpsychiatric and ethical reflections about prevention of schizophrenic disorders].
OBJECTIVE
In the last years there has been a shift from curative to preventive objectives in politics (prevention law) and medicine, by which socialpsychiatric practice also is affected. This requires a critical reflection about ethical, methodical and therapeutic problems of the prevention of psychological disorders--especially schizophrenic psychosis.


OBJECTIVE
Studies dealing with the prodromal stage of schizophrenia point to a successful early detection and intervention. But also negative consequences like stigmatization and side effects by psychotherapeutic or pharmacologic interventions should be taken into account.


CONCLUSIONS
Under critical consideration of the ethical principles of not causing harm, acting for the well-being and the person's right of self-determination prevention should play a larger role in psychiatry. Therefore further empirical studies about the efficacy of early detection and intervention are needed.
Machleidt
W
W
Abteilung Sozialpsychiatrie und Psychotherapie der Medizinischen Hochschule Hannover, Podbielskistrasse 158, Hannover.
Brüggemann
B R
BR
D014150:Antipsychotic Agents / Q000009:adverse effects / Q000627:therapeutic use; D003158:Community Psychiatry / Q000941:ethics*; D006801:Humans; D012559:Schizophrenia / Q000175:diagnosis / Q000517:prevention & control*; D012565:Schizophrenic Psychology; D013240:Stereotyping
D014150:Antipsychotic Agents