History and Phenomenology of Schizophrenia and Related Psychoses
Psychosis has probably affected humans since the start of humanity itself, although the construct of schizophrenia is a relatively new phenomenon, dating back to the nineteenth century. Work by Emil Kraepelin and Eugen Bleuler helped consolidate ideas about psychotic disorders, setting the stage for both clinical care and neuroscience research in subsequent centuries. Phenomenologically, psychotic symptoms range from “positive” symptoms (delusions, hallucinations), to “negative” symptoms (avolition, affective blunting), to “disorganization” symptoms (disorganized speech and behavior), which all combine to produce functional deficits. Different psychotic disorders have different combinations of symptoms, which can combine with mood and anxiety symptoms to affect functioning problems in unique ways. These symptoms can be recognized fairly reliably in individuals. Understanding the inner experience of psychosis can help improve patient-centered care.