Early Identification of Psychosis in Schools

Abstract

Psychosis refers to the experience of hallucinations and delusions and can occur in the context of several psychiatric disorders. Although individuals experiencing mood disorders, dementias, medical conditions that affect brain function, and substance use may present with psychotic features, primary psychosis—that is, psychosis not associated with mood symptoms, brain deterioration, or substance use—is conceptualized within the 'schizophrenia spectrum.' This class of disorders includes schizophrenia, schizoaffective disorder, schizophreniform disorder, and some of the personality disorders. This chapter will focus on the identification and treatment of schizophrenia among youth. Many of the assessment and intervention techniques discussed will likely be helpful for school-based providers who encounter a child with, or with suspected, psychotic symptoms across a range of diagnoses. (PsycInfo Database Record (c) 2022 APA, all rights reserved)