Psychology · Year 13 · Schizophrenia · 3.º Período

Psychological Explanations and Therapies

Students explore family dysfunction and cognitive explanations for schizophrenia. They will assess the use of cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT), family therapy, and token economies in managing the condition.

TL;DR:Psychological explanations for schizophrenia look at the role of family dysfunction and cognitive distortions. Students explore theories like the 'double-bind' and 'expressed emotion,' alongside cognitive models that explain hallucinations as a failure of self-monitoring. The topic also covers the management of schizophrenia through CBT, family therapy, and token economies.

• National Curriculum Attainment Targets
• AQA A-level Psychology 7182 - 4.3.3.4
• AQA A-level Psychology 7182 - 4.3.3.5

About This Topic

Psychological explanations for schizophrenia look at the role of family dysfunction and cognitive distortions. Students explore theories like the 'double-bind' and 'expressed emotion,' alongside cognitive models that explain hallucinations as a failure of self-monitoring. The topic also covers the management of schizophrenia through CBT, family therapy, and token economies.

This topic is essential for providing a balanced view of schizophrenia, moving beyond purely biological models. It requires students to evaluate the effectiveness of 'talking therapies' and the ethical implications of using behaviour modification in psychiatric wards. Students grasp this concept faster through structured discussion and peer explanation, where they can role-play therapy sessions and debate the power dynamics of token economies.

Key Questions

1. How does high expressed emotion in families contribute to relapse?
2. What cognitive deficits are typically associated with schizophrenia?
3. How does CBT help patients manage their hallucinations and delusions?

Watch Out for These Misconceptions

Common Misconception

Family dysfunction theories mean that parents 'cause' schizophrenia.

What to Teach Instead

Modern theories suggest family stress is a 'trigger' or a factor in relapse, not necessarily the sole cause. Using the diathesis-stress model in peer discussions helps students see the family as part of a wider environmental context.

Common Misconception

Token economies are a 'cure' for schizophrenia.

What to Teach Instead

Token economies are a management tool for behaviour in institutional settings; they do not treat the underlying symptoms. Collaborative design tasks help students see that these systems are about making life in a ward more manageable, not curing the disorder.

Active Learning Ideas

Role Play

The CBT Session

In pairs, one student plays a therapist and the other a patient with a specific delusion (e.g., 'the government is tracking me'). The therapist must use 'reality testing' and 'empirical disputing' to help the patient challenge the logic of their delusion.

40 min·Pairs

Inquiry Circle

Designing a Token Economy

Small groups are tasked with designing a token economy for a psychiatric ward. They must decide which behaviours to reward, what the tokens can be exchanged for, and then present their plan to the class for an 'ethical audit.'

45 min·Small Groups

Think-Pair-Share

Family Dysfunction

Students read about 'Expressed Emotion' (EE). Individually, they list how high EE might lead to relapse; in pairs, they discuss how family therapy could reduce these tensions, and share their ideas with the class.

30 min·Pairs

Frequently Asked Questions

How does Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) help schizophrenic patients?

CBT helps patients by identifying and challenging their irrational thoughts. For example, a therapist might help a patient look for evidence for and against a delusion, a process called 'reality testing.' By understanding that their hallucinations are not real, patients can reduce their anxiety and improve their ability to function in daily life.

What is 'Expressed Emotion' (EE) in family therapy?

Expressed Emotion refers to the level of criticism, hostility, and emotional over-involvement directed toward a patient by their family members. High levels of EE are a significant predictor of relapse in schizophrenia. Family therapy aims to reduce these levels by improving communication and helping family members understand the patient's condition.

How do token economies work in psychiatric hospitals?

Token economies are based on operant conditioning. Patients receive tokens (secondary reinforcers) for performing desirable behaviours, such as making their bed or attending therapy. These tokens can later be exchanged for rewards (primary reinforcers) like sweets or extra free time. They are used to manage 'institutionalisation' and encourage socially acceptable behaviour.

How can active learning help students understand psychological therapies?

Active learning, like role-playing a CBT session, allows students to see the 'how' of therapy rather than just reading about it. By actually practicing reality testing, they understand the cognitive effort required from both therapist and patient. This hands-on experience makes it much easier for them to evaluate the strengths and limitations of these therapies in their exam answers.