Analysis of a Schizophrenic Psychosocial Network

Abstract

The amorphous concept of social support systems merits construction of a conceptually coherent theoretical model linked to social theory and amenable to empirical investigation. The social network paradigm is presented as such a model. The model is further defined in terms of the intimate psychosocial network, which has been empirically studied with the Pattison Psychosocial Kinship Inventory. The characteristics of the normal network are shown to differ substantially in the schizophrenic network. The structure and functions of the schizophrenic network are illustrated in a case study analysis. The schizophrenic network is shown to exhibit dynamics that generate and perpetuate psychotic behavior. A strategy for network intervention is described, based on the model of structural change in the network social system.

An Update on the Epidemiology of Schizophrenia*

“…At the first episode of illness, schizophrenics have smaller social networks than normals, or than persons with affective psychosis. The number offamily members to whom they are close is identical for all three groups; the difference is that schizophrenics tend to have fewer friends (41,110). As expected, the greater the number of friends, and the greater their satisfaction with their friendships, the better the course of illness both for schizophrenics and for people with affective disorders.…”

Generating Dialogical Practices in Mental Health: Experiences from Southern Norway, 1998–2008

“…The social network generally includes (1) family relations living in the same economy; (2) family relations in different economies and extended family relations; (3) relations in daily activity (e.g., school, workplace, or daytreatment contacts; and (4) other relations (e.g., friends, hobbies, neighbors) (Pattisson and Pattisson 1981). In psychosocial services, relations between clients, their families, and different authorities emerge as an important network.…”

El Síndrome de Fatiga Crónica: del modelo de susceptibilidad a la hipótesis de la cadena de estrés en el área laboral

“…Estas personas con las que uno se relaciona podrían estar situadas en cuatro subgrupos: familia, parientes, amigos y vecinos o compañeros de trabajo. Esta red social normal se caracteriza por una interacción frecuente, un afecto positivo y un componente instrumental de apoyo importante (44). Y ha prevalecido la idea de que las personas con muchas o muy estrechas relaciones, reciben más apoyo social que aquéllos que carecen de ellas.…”