No. 49; Updated November 2004
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Schizophrenia is a serious psychiatric illness that causes strange thinking, strange feelings, and unusual behavior. It is uncommon in children and is hard to recognize in its early phases. The cause of schizophrenia is not known. Current research suggests a combination of brain changes, bio-chemical, genetic and environmental factors may be involved. Early diagnosis and medical treatment are important. Schizophrenia is a life-long disease that can be controlled but not cured.
The symptoms and behavior of children and adolescents with schizophrenia may differ from that of adults with this illness. The following symptoms and behaviors can occur in children or adolescents with schizophrenia:
- seeing things and hearing voices which are not real (hallucinations),
- odd and eccentric behavior, and/or speech,
- unusual or bizarre thoughts and ideas,
- confusing television and dreams from reality,
- confused thinking,
- extreme moodiness,
- ideas that people are out to get them or talking about them, (paranoia)
- severe anxiety and fearfulness,
- difficulty relating to peers, and keeping friends.
- withdrawn and increased isolation,
- decline in personal hygiene
The behavior of children with schizophrenia may change slowly over time. For example, children who used to enjoy relationships with others may start to become more shy or withdrawn and seem to be in their own world. Sometimes youngsters will begin talking about strange fears and ideas. They may start to cling to parents or say things which do not make sense. These early symptoms and problems may first be noticed by the child's school teachers.
Children with schizophrenia must have a complete evaluation. Parents should ask their family physician or pediatrician to refer them to a psychiatrist, preferably a child and adolescent psychiatrist, who is specifically trained and skilled at evaluating, diagnosing, and treating children with schizophrenia. Children with schizophrenia need a comprehensive treatment plan. A combination of medication, individual therapy, family therapy, and specialized programs (school, activities, etc.) is often necessary. Psychiatric medication can be helpful for many of the symptoms and problems identified. These medications require careful monitoring by a psychiatrist (preferably a child and adolescent psychiatrist.)
For more information see Facts For Families:
#11 The Child With Autism
#21 Psychiatric Medication for Children
#29 Psychiatric Medication Part II: Types
#38 Bipolar Disorder in Teens
#69 Asperger’s Disorder
#85 Reactive Attachment Disorder
#52 Comprehensive Psychiatric Evaluation
See also: Your Child (1998 Harper Collins) / Your Adolescent (1999 Harper Collins)
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Click here to order Your Adolescent from Harper Collins
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The American Academy of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry (AACAP) represents over 7,500 child and adolescent psychiatrists who are physicians with at least five years of additional training beyond medical school in general (adult) and child and adolescent psychiatry.
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The information on this website is provided for general reference purposes. It does not constitute medical or other professional advice and should not be used as a substitute for the medical care and advice of your child and adolescent psychiatrist or other physician. Only a qualified, licensed physician can determine the individual treatment that is appropriate for your particular circumstances. All decisions about clinical care should be made in consultation with a physician.
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