[Psycho-educational coping-oriented group therapy for schizophrenia patients].
OBJECTIVE
The aim of this study was to evaluate the effectiveness of a psycho-educational, coping-oriented therapy programme for patients with schizophrenia or schizo-affective disorder.


METHODS
Controlled, prospective study design. In the experimental group the Therapy Manual for Psycho-education and Coping with Illness (PKB) was used, providing targeted information on the illness, medical treatment, prodromal symptoms, and health behaviour. Controls participated in supportive dialogues or in an occupational rehabilitation programme. Psychopathology, re-hospitalisations, knowledge, functional outcome and coping strategies were assessed before, directly after and 12 months post therapy.


RESULTS
82 patients participated. In both groups (experimental, control) a significant improvement in psychopathology and general functioning level were observed. Specific advantages for patients of the experimental group were limited to a few aspects, including rehospitalizations in the first year and certain coping strategies.


CONCLUSIONS
In the treatment of schizophrenia different forms of psycho-social intervention (experimental, control) can be effective. Identification of subgroups profiting specially from certain types of intervention should be subject of future research.
Haller
Christina
C
Univ.-Klinik für Allgemeine Psychiatrie und Sozialpsychiatrie Innsbruck, Department für Psychiatrie und Psychotherapie, Medizinische Universität Innsbruck. Christina.Haller@uki.at
Andres
Karl
K
Hofer
Alex
A
Hummer
Martina
M
Gutweniger
Sarah
S
Kemmler
Georg
G
Pfammatter
Mario
M
Meise
Ullrich
U
D000223:Adaptation, Psychological; D000328:Adult; D016022:Case-Control Studies; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D008137:Longitudinal Studies; D008297:Male; D010353:Patient Education as Topic; D010359:Patient Readmission; D011446:Prospective Studies; D011569:Psychiatric Status Rating Scales; D011615:Psychotherapy, Group; D011618:Psychotic Disorders / Q000628:therapy*; D012559:Schizophrenia / Q000628:therapy*; D012565:Schizophrenic Psychology; D016896:Treatment Outcome; D055815:Young Adult