Scale for Space and Time Experience in Psychosis: Converging Phenomenological and Psychopathological Perspectives

2021 ◽  
pp. 1-11
Author(s):  
Filipe Arantes-Gonçalves ◽  
Angelika Wolman ◽  
António J. Bastos-Leite ◽  
Georg Northoff
Keyword(s):  
Psychometric Properties ◽  
Psychotic Symptoms ◽  
Schizophrenia Spectrum Disorders ◽  
Validity And Reliability ◽  
Psychopathological Symptoms ◽  
Space And Time ◽  
Time Experience ◽  
Affective Symptoms ◽  
Schizophrenia Spectrum ◽  
Spectrum Disorders

<b><i>Introduction:</i></b> Abnormalities in the experience of space and time are fundamental to understanding schizophrenia spectrum disorders, but the precise relation between such abnormalities and psychopathological symptoms is still unclear. Therefore, the aim of our study was to introduce a novel scale for space and time experience in psychosis (STEP), specifically devised to assess schizophrenia spectrum disorders. <b><i>Methods:</i></b> The STEP scale is a semiquantitative instrument developed on the basis of several items from previous scales and phenomenological reports addressing the experience of space and time. We applied the STEP scale to three groups of subjects (patients with schizophrenia spectrum disorders, patients with predominant affective symptoms, and healthy control subjects), to whom we also applied other more general psychopathological scales, such as the Positive and Negative Syndrome Scale and the Ego-Psychopathology Inventory. <b><i>Results:</i></b> Patients with schizophrenia spectrum disorders scored significantly higher on general psychopatho<X00_Del_TrennDivis>­-</X00_Del_TrennDivis>logical scales relative to subjects belonging to the other groups. The STEP scale provided good psychometric properties regarding reliability. We also tested convergent and divergent validity of the STEP scale and found that space and time subscale scores of STEP significantly correlated with each other, as well as with the remaining general psychopathological scores. <b><i>Discussion/Conclusion:</i></b> We introduced the STEP scale as a novel instrument for the assessment of experience of space and time. Its psychometric properties showed high validity and reliability to identify psychopathological symptoms and enabled to differentiate patients with predominantly psychotic symptoms from those with predominantly affective symptoms. The STEP scale provides a standardized measure for assessing disturbances in the experience of space and time. Furthermore, it probably represents a leap forward toward the establishment of an additional dimension of symptoms proposed as “spatiotemporal psychopathology.”

scholarly journals Acoustic speech markers for schizophrenia-spectrum disorders: a diagnostic and symptom-recognition tool

2021 ◽  
pp. 1-11
Author(s):  
J. N. de Boer ◽  
A. E. Voppel ◽  
S. G. Brederoo ◽  
H. G. Schnack ◽  
K. P. Truong ◽  
...  
Keyword(s):  
Negative Symptoms ◽  
Structured Interview ◽  
Diagnostic Value ◽  
Spectrum Disorder ◽  
Psychotic Symptoms ◽  
Schizophrenia Spectrum Disorders ◽  
Schizophrenia Spectrum Disorder ◽  
Speech Technology ◽  
Schizophrenia Spectrum ◽  
Spectrum Disorders

Abstract Background Clinicians routinely use impressions of speech as an element of mental status examination. In schizophrenia-spectrum disorders, descriptions of speech are used to assess the severity of psychotic symptoms. In the current study, we assessed the diagnostic value of acoustic speech parameters in schizophrenia-spectrum disorders, as well as its value in recognizing positive and negative symptoms. Methods Speech was obtained from 142 patients with a schizophrenia-spectrum disorder and 142 matched controls during a semi-structured interview on neutral topics. Patients were categorized as having predominantly positive or negative symptoms using the Positive and Negative Syndrome Scale (PANSS). Acoustic parameters were extracted with OpenSMILE, employing the extended Geneva Acoustic Minimalistic Parameter Set, which includes standardized analyses of pitch (F0), speech quality and pauses. Speech parameters were fed into a random forest algorithm with leave-ten-out cross-validation to assess their value for a schizophrenia-spectrum diagnosis, and PANSS subtype recognition. Results The machine-learning speech classifier attained an accuracy of 86.2% in classifying patients with a schizophrenia-spectrum disorder and controls on speech parameters alone. Patients with predominantly positive v. negative symptoms could be classified with an accuracy of 74.2%. Conclusions Our results show that automatically extracted speech parameters can be used to accurately classify patients with a schizophrenia-spectrum disorder and healthy controls, as well as differentiate between patients with predominantly positive v. negatives symptoms. Thus, the field of speech technology has provided a standardized, powerful tool that has high potential for clinical applications in diagnosis and differentiation, given its ease of comparison and replication across samples.

Awareness of illness moderates self-assessment of psychotic symptoms

2021 ◽  
pp. 000486742110574
Author(s):  
Luis Martinez Agulleiro ◽  
Renato de Filippis ◽  
Stella Rosson ◽  
Bhagyashree Patil ◽  
Lara Prizgint ◽  
...  
Keyword(s):  
Mental Disorders ◽  
Confidence Interval ◽  
Rating Scale ◽  
Psychotic Symptoms ◽  
Schizophrenia Spectrum Disorders ◽  
Brief Psychiatric Rating Scale ◽  
Schizophrenia Spectrum ◽  
Psychiatric Rating ◽  
Spectrum Disorders ◽  
Psychiatric Rating Scale

Objective: Self-reports or patient-reported outcome measures are seldom used in psychosis due to concerns about the ability of patients to accurately report their symptomatology, particularly in cases of low awareness of illness. The aim of this study was to assess the effect of insight on the accuracy of self-reported psychotic symptoms using a computerized adaptive testing tool (CAT-Psychosis). Methods: A secondary analysis of data drawn from the CAT-Psychosis development and validation study was performed. The Brief Psychiatric Rating Scale and the Scale of Unawareness of Mental Disorders were administered by clinicians. Patients completed the self-reported version of the CAT-Psychosis. Patients were median-split regarding their insight level to compare the correlation between the two psychosis severity measures. A subgroup sensitivity analysis was performed only on patients with schizophrenia spectrum disorders. Results: A total of 159 patients with a psychotic disorder who completed both CAT-Psychosis and Scale of Unawareness of Mental Disorders were included. For the whole sample, CAT-Psychosis scores showed convergent validity with Brief Psychiatric Rating Scale ratings ( r = 0.517, 95% confidence interval = [0.392, 0.622], p < 0.001). Insight was found to moderate this correlation (β = –0.511, p = 0.005), yet agreement between both measures remained statistically significant for both high ( r = 0.621, 95% confidence interval = [0.476, 0.733], p < 0.001) and low insight patients ( r = 0.408, 95% confidence interval = [0.187, 0.589], p < 0.001), while psychosis severity was comparable between these groups (for Brief Psychiatric Rating Scale: U = 3057, z = –0.129, p = 0.897; disorganization: U = 2986.5, z = –0.274, p = 0.784 and for CAT-Psychosis: U = 2800.5, z = –1.022, p = 0.307). Subgroup of patients with schizophrenia spectrum disorders showed very similar results. Conclusions: Insight moderates the correlation between self-reported and clinician-rated severity of psychosis, yet CAT-Psychosis remains valid in patients with both high and low awareness of illness.

scholarly journals A review of autobiographical memory studies on patients with schizophrenia spectrum disorders

2019 ◽  
Vol 19 (1) ◽  
Author(s):  
Yujia Zhang ◽  
Sara K. Kuhn ◽  
Laura Jobson ◽  
Shamsul Haque
Keyword(s):  
Autobiographical Memory ◽  
Psychotic Symptoms ◽  
Control Group ◽  
Schizophrenia Spectrum Disorders ◽  
Autobiographical Memories ◽  
Memory Specificity ◽  
Autobiographical Memory Specificity ◽  
Schizophrenia Spectrum ◽  
Spectrum Disorders ◽  
The Relationship

Abstract Background Patients suffering from schizophrenia spectrum disorders demonstrate various cognitive deficiencies, the most pertinent one being impairment in autobiographical memory. This paper reviews quantitative research investigating deficits in the content, and characteristics, of autobiographical memories in individuals with schizophrenia. It also examines if the method used to activate autobiographical memories influenced the results and which theoretical accounts were proposed to explain the defective recall of autobiographical memories in patients with schizophrenia. Methods PsycINFO, Web of Science, and PubMed databases were searched for articles published between January 1998 and December 2018. Fifty-seven studies met the inclusion criteria. All studies implemented the generative retrieval strategy by inducing memories through cue words or pictures, the life-stage method, or open-ended retrieval method. The Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) Statement guidelines were followed for this review. Results Most studies reported that patients with schizophrenia retrieve less specific autobiographical memories when compared to a healthy control group, while only three studies indicated that both groups performed similarly on memory specificity. Patients with schizophrenia also exhibited earlier reminiscence bumps than those for healthy controls. The relationship between comorbid depression and autobiographical memory specificity appeared to be independent because patients’ memory specificity improved through intervention, but their level of depression remained unchanged. The U-shaped retrieval pattern for memory specificity was not consistent. Both the connection between the history of attempted suicide and autobiographical memory specificity, and the relationship between psychotic symptoms and autobiographical memory specificity, remain inconclusive. Patients’ memory specificity and coherence improved through cognitive training. Conclusions The overgeneral recall of autobiographical memory by patients with schizophrenia could be attributed to working memory, the disturbing concept of self, and the cuing method implemented. The earlier reminiscence bump for patients with schizophrenia may be explained by the premature closure of the identity formation process due to the emergence of psychotic symptoms during early adulthood. Protocol developed for this review was registered in PROSPERO (registration no: CRD42017062643).

scholarly journals Protocol for Light-Dark and Activity Rhythm Therapy for sleep: Feasibility and acceptability in Schizophrenia spectrum disorders (L-DART FitSz)

2021 ◽  
Author(s):  
Sophie Faulkner ◽  
Penny E. Bee ◽  
Richard J. Drake
Keyword(s):  
Light Exposure ◽  
Activity Rhythm ◽  
Qualitative Interviews ◽  
Activity Patterns ◽  
Sleep Onset ◽  
Psychotic Symptoms ◽  
Schizophrenia Spectrum Disorders ◽  
Schizophrenia Spectrum ◽  
Outcome Selection ◽  
Spectrum Disorders

Abstract BackgroundSleep problems are common in people with diagnoses of schizophrenia spectrum disorders (> 50%), even during periods of relative stability of psychotic symptoms. Evidence suggests that people living with schizophrenia spectrum disorders are often keen to improve their sleep, but few non-pharmacological sleep treatments are available to patients in specialist mental health services. It has been proposed that occupational therapists may have the relevant skills for the delivery of behavioural sleep interventions. This mixed method, proof-of-concept study aims to assess the feasibility and acceptability of a new intervention, Light-Dark and Activity Rhythm Therapy (L-DART), to improve sleep in people with schizophrenia spectrum disorder diagnoses.MethodsA single group of 10 service users with schizophrenia spectrum diagnoses and self-reported problems with sleep onset, maintenance, timing or quality will be offered L-DART. L-DART will be delivered over 6–9 in person sessions and 3–6 phonecalls by an occupational therapist. Feasibility measures will comprise recruitment and retention logs, fidelity based on session records, adverse effects, and study attrition. Intervention uptake, engagement and adherence will be measured, and barriers to adherence explored. Acceptability will be assessed though quantitative satisfaction ratings and qualitative interviews. Activity patterns and dynamic light exposure will be measured, as well as self-reported sleep, wellbeing and functioning, to inform outcome selection in a larger trial.DiscussionThe findings will inform any necessary modifications to the intervention and its materials, enabling the development of a stage 2 manual and a therapist training package. The results will support the design of a randomised multi-therapist feasibility trial.Trial registrationISRCTN11998005, assigned registration on 17.02.2020

A systematic review of yoga and schizophrenia spectrum disorders: Implications for recreational therapy practitioners

2018 ◽  
Vol 17 (2) ◽  
pp. 37
Author(s):  
Emilie V. Adams, MS, CTRS, C-IAYT ◽  
Jasmine Townsend, PhD, CTRS
Keyword(s):  
Mental Illnesses ◽  
Psychotic Symptoms ◽  
Recreational Therapy ◽  
Schizophrenia Spectrum Disorders ◽  
Recreation Therapy ◽  
Therapy Program ◽  
Schizophrenia Spectrum ◽  
Spectrum Disorders ◽  
Social Skills Deficits

Schizophrenia spectrum disorders (SSDs) are a group of mental illnesses characterized by hallucinations, delusions, disorganized thought; they are often accompanied by cognitive dysfunction, social skills deficits, and low volition. This article reviews the extant literature on the efficacy of using yoga as an adjunct therapy to supplement standard pharmacotherapy and psychotherapy in the treatment and management of SSD. The 16 studies reviewed indicate yoga may be an effective intervention for increasing global cognitive functioning, decreasing psychotic symptoms, and improving quality of life for clients with SSD. Recommendations for integration of yoga into a Recreation Therapy program are outlined.

scholarly journals Self-Stigma and Its Relationship with Victimization, Psychotic Symptoms and Self-Esteem among People with Schizophrenia Spectrum Disorders

PLoS ONE ◽  
2016 ◽  
Vol 11 (10) ◽  
pp. e0149763 ◽  
Author(s):  
Ellen M. A. Horsselenberg ◽  
Jooske T. van Busschbach ◽  
Andre Aleman ◽  
Gerdine H. M. Pijnenborg
Keyword(s):  
Self Esteem ◽  
Psychotic Symptoms ◽  
Schizophrenia Spectrum Disorders ◽  
Schizophrenia Spectrum ◽  
Spectrum Disorders

Controversy Over the Diagnosis of ‘Cannabis-Induced Psychosis’

2009 ◽  
Vol 24 (S1) ◽  
pp. 1-1
Author(s):  
M. Arendt
Keyword(s):  
Psychiatric Disorders ◽  
Psychiatric Treatment ◽  
Subsequent Treatment ◽  
Psychotic Symptoms ◽  
Schizophrenia Spectrum Disorders ◽  
Familial Predisposition ◽  
Schizophrenia Spectrum ◽  
Icd 10 ◽  
Dsm Iv ◽  
Spectrum Disorders

Background:Both the ICD-10 and the DSM-IV operate with a diagnosis of cannabis-induced psychotic disorder. Despite this, the diagnosis is controversial.A number of studies have shown that cannabis can induce short-lived psychotic symptoms, and that this could depend on factors such as genetic predisposition. To qualify for a diagnosis of ‘cannabis-induced psychosis’, however, the symptoms must last for at least 48 hours according to the ICD-10. This diagnosis has traditionally been regarded as benign, but this is based on a very limited number of studies.Methods:We have conducted two studies based on Danish treatment registers. Firstly, all patients who had received psychiatric treatment for cannabis-induced psychosis were followed for at least 3 years to determine the rate of subsequent treatment for schizophrenia-spectrum disorders. Secondly, familial predisposition for psychiatric disorders among subjects treated for cannabis-induced psychosis and schizophrenia was compared using competing risk analyses.Results:Schizophrenia spectrum disorders were diagnosed in 44.5% of the 535 subjects included in the first study. New psychotic episodes of any type were diagnosed in 77.2% and 47.1% received a diagnosis of schizophrenia spectrum disorders more than a year after the cannabis-induced psychosis.Those who develop cannabis-induced psychosis and schizophrenia spectrum disorders both show elevated levels of predisposition for schizophrenia, other psychotic conditions, and other psychiatric disorders in first-degree relatives. In general, the level of predisposition is of similar magnitude in individuals treated for cannabis-induced psychosis and schizophrenia.Conclusion:Cannabis-induced psychosis could be an early sign of schizophrenia rather than a distinct clinical entity.

Premorbid cannabis use is associated with more symptoms and poorer functioning in schizophrenia spectrum disorder

2016 ◽  
Vol 46 (15) ◽  
pp. 3127-3136 ◽  
Author(s):  
P. A. Ringen ◽  
R. Nesvåg ◽  
S. Helle ◽  
T. V. Lagerberg ◽  
E. H. Lange ◽  
...  
Keyword(s):  
Substance Use ◽  
Age At Onset ◽  
Cannabis Use ◽  
Spectrum Disorder ◽  
Psychotic Symptoms ◽  
Schizophrenia Spectrum Disorders ◽  
Schizophrenia Spectrum Disorder ◽  
Schizophrenia Spectrum ◽  
Premorbid Functioning ◽  
Spectrum Disorders

BackgroundCannabis use disorder is associated with an earlier age at onset and a more severe outcome of schizophrenia spectrum disorders. The role of cannabis use before the onset of illness (premorbid cannabis use) has not been fully investigated. We here examined how amount and type of premorbid cannabis use was associated with the later course of illness including current substance use, symptoms and level of functioning in schizophrenia spectrum disorder.MethodWe used a naturalistic sample of patients with DSM-IV schizophrenia spectrum disorders with a comprehensive history of illness and substance use. Data on premorbid substance use was obtained from comprehensive self-report. The relationship to outcome was investigated using regression models that included current substance use and premorbid functioning.ResultsPre-schizophrenia cannabis use was significantly associated with more severe psychotic symptoms and impaired functioning. Higher levels of premorbid cannabis use were associated with higher levels of current psychotic symptoms. These associations were independent of current substance use and premorbid functioning. Early use of cannabis (age <17 years) was associated with earlier age at onset of psychosis, independently of potential confounders.ConclusionsPre-psychosis cannabis use affects illness outcome in schizophrenia spectrum disorders, and is associated with lower age at onset of psychosis. These findings of independent negative effects of premorbid cannabis use in schizophrenia suggest that a limitation of the general use of cannabis may have beneficial health effects.

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