Theory of mind and schizophrenia.
A number of cognitive and behavioral variables influence the performance in tasks of theory of mind (ToM). Since two of the most important variables, memory and explicit expression, are impaired in schizophrenic patients, the ToM appears inconsistent in these patients. An ideal instrument of ToM should therefore account for deficient memory and impaired ability of these patients to explicitly express intentions. If such an instrument is developed, it should provide information that can be used not only to understand the pathophysiology but also to monitor patients.
Badgaiyan
Rajendra D
RD
Division of Nuclear Medicine, Harvard Medical School, and Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, MA 02114, USA. rajendra@wjh.harvard.edu
D003072:Cognition Disorders / Q000209:etiology*; D005625:Frontal Lobe / Q000503:physiopathology; D006801:Humans; D033182:Intention; D008569:Memory Disorders / Q000175:diagnosis / Q000209:etiology; D009483:Neuropsychological Tests; D011596:Psychomotor Disorders / Q000175:diagnosis / Q000209:etiology / Q000517:prevention & control; D012559:Schizophrenia / Q000150:complications* / Q000503:physiopathology; D014705:Verbal Behavior