Symptom subtypes in persons institutionalized with schizophrenia: Comparison of demographics, outcome and functional skills.

Using a formula based on the concept by N. C. Andreasen (see record 1982-29376-001) and N. C. Andreasen and S. Olsen (see record 1982-30452-001) of classifying subtypes into positive, negative, and mixed schizophrenia, 312 persons institutionalized with Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-III) schizophrenia were retrospectively examined. 59 Ss were classified into the positive symptom subtype, 33 into the negative symptom subtype, and 220 into the mixed symptom subtype. Symptom subtypes were compared on traditional demographic and outcome indicators, as well as on a dimension critical to rehabilitation (i.e., measures of degree of assistance necessary to perform functional skills). No significant differences were found among the subtypes on demographic items and traditional indicators of outcome such as level of vocational functioning or independent living. However, on measures of degree of assistance necessary to perform functional skills, significant differences were found among the symptom subtypes. (PsycINFO Database Record (c) 2010 APA, all rights reserved)