Classification of schizophrenia. Schizophrenia is classified as a severe mental disorder characterised by a range of symptoms. Positive symptoms include hallucinations, such as hearing voices, and delusions, which are false, fixed beliefs. Negative symptoms include speech poverty, where communication becomes limited, and avolition, marked by a lack of motivation or goal-directed behaviour

Schizophrenia has a strong genetic component, supported by evidence from family, twin, and adoption studies. First-degree relatives face a 9–13% risk, and identical twins show a 48% concordance rate, highlighting heritability. Adoption studies further separate genetic and environmental influences, showing higher rates among biological relatives. Modern research reveals schizophrenia is polygenic, involving multiple genetic variations. Explore how genes and environment interact in this complex disorder.

The dopamine hypothesis of schizophrenia has evolved from its original form, which linked dopamine overactivity in the mesolimbic system to positive symptoms, to the reformulated dopamine hypothesis, which also recognises dopamine underactivity in the mesocortical pathway as a cause of negative symptoms. Further research into neural correlates has identified glutamate dysregulation, where reduced glutamate activity may contribute to cognitive and emotional deficits. These insights highlight schizophrenia as a disorder involving a complex interplay of neurotransmitters beyond just dopamine.

Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) is an effective treatment for schizophrenia, focusing on identifying and challenging delusional beliefs and developing coping strategies. It helps patients better understand their symptoms, manage distress, and improve daily functioning. CBT is often used alongside medication to provide a holistic approach to managing the disorder