Biological and Genetic vs. Psychological and Environmental Perspectives

• Even though Schizophrenia isn’t fully understood, psychiatrists think of Schizophrenia as the cancer of all the mental disorders. Most of the research and studies have shown that genes play an important role in Schizophrenia. Doctors and other experts suggest that genetic factors have a strong link to Schizophrenia and its development. In several mental diseases, biological, psychological, and environmental factors integrating is far from possible. However, Schizophrenia is thought to be part of a biopsychosocial system, meaning there could be a combination of biological, psychological and social factors for its development. Researchers are always trying to identify the real and specific cause of Schizophrenia. On the other hand, the correct or accurate results to their studies don’t seem to be happening soon enough. As mentioned before, genes seem to be the biggest influence for Schizophrenia. There is even proof that the brains of Schizophrenic patients are different than those without the disorder. In contrast, there have also been other studies that imply that environmental factors might play a more important role in Schizophrenia. Some studies have shown that there is a linkage between the utilization of drugs such as amphetamines and the mental illness. It has been suggested that genes’ developmental damage can result in people who are more vulnerable to dopamine removal maybe caused by drug usage. Studies which try to emphasize environmental factors as a cause for Schizophrenia haven’t been too conclusive though, but it has been proven that environment definitely helps with some of the negative symptoms. Family factors such as criticism and lack of emotional support are big influences that decrease the improvement of symptoms in Schizophrenic patients. Nevertheless, as today, genetics are still believed to be more important than any other factor in the development of Schizophrenia.

Schizohrenic Brain Pictures

Butterfly Shape
Twin Studies
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