Effect of child abuse and neglect on schizophrenia and other psychotic disorders

Pharmacol Biochem Behav. 2021 Jul:206:173195. doi: 10.1016/j.pbb.2021.173195. Epub 2021 May 5.

Abstract

Childhood experiences impact long-term physical and behavioral health outcomes including potential risk for schizophrenia and psychosis. Negative experiences, such as child abuse and neglect, have been specifically associated with risk for schizophrenia and psychosis. This review provides a brief overview of child abuse and neglect, including its position within the larger field of trauma and adversity and its long term consequences. The link to schizophrenia is then explored. Principles of treatment and outcomes for schizophrenia with antecedent child abuse and neglect are then reviewed. Finally, next steps and points of prevention are highlighted.

Keywords: Adverse childhood experiences; Child abuse; Child maltreatment; Child neglect; Psychosis; Schizophrenia.

Publication types

  • Research Support, N.I.H., Extramural
  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Adolescent
  • Adult
  • Adverse Childhood Experiences*
  • Child
  • Child Abuse*
  • Environment
  • Genetic Predisposition to Disease
  • Humans
  • Psychotic Disorders / epidemiology*
  • Risk Factors
  • Schizophrenia / epidemiology*
  • Schizophrenia / therapy
  • Substance-Related Disorders / epidemiology
  • Young Adult