Case Study - Schizophrenia

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to repeat the question and constantly zoned out. Moreover, he showed asociality and was socially withdrawn.

Mr. L meets the first criterion because he presented all the necessary symptoms for this criterion. Moreover, although the case study did not specify the exact duration of his symptoms, the study mentioned that his treatment lasted for more than a month.

B. Since the onset of the disturbance, level of functioning in major areas is markedly below the level achieved prior to the onset (or when the onset is in childhood or adolescence, there is failure to achieve expected level of interpersonal, academic, or occupational functioning).

Mr. L repeated eighth grade and dropped out in 11th grade. He also became increasingly withdrawn and was unable to meet the expected level of functioning. Moreover, he was unemployed because he could not concentrate and was often distracted.

C. Continuous signs of the disturbance persist for at least 6 months. This 6-month period must include at least 1 month of symptoms (or less if successfully treated) that meets Criterion A and may include periods of prodromal or residual symptoms. During these periods, the signs of the disturbance may be manifested by only negative symptoms or by two or more symptoms listed in Criterion A present in an attenuated form. There was no mention of when Mr. L’s delusions and hallucinations began; however, his negative symptoms were present since high school.

D. Schizoaffective disorder and depressive or bipolar disorder with psychotic features has been ruled out. Mr. L did not have major depressive nor manic episodes that occurred concurrently with the active-phase symptoms.

E. The disturbance is not attributable to the physiological effects of a substance or another medical condition. The case study explicitly mentioned that Mr. L had no history of drug use. There was also no mention of another medical condition that could have caused the physiological effects.

F. If there is a history of autism spectrum disorder or a communication disorder of childhood onset, the additional diagnosis of schizophrenia is made only if prominent delusions or hallucinations, in addition to the other required symptoms of schizophrenia, are also present for at least a month (or less if successfully treated). The client had no history of autism spectrum disorder or communication disorder.

VIII. Specifiers

Multiple episodes, currently in full remission

Mr. L was admitted because his auditory hallucinations and social withdrawal increased; however, his condition improved after being given medication. He is now a well-functioning individual and works full-time at a supermarket.