Avinash De Sousa.
The family in schizophrenia; perceptions of patients and their normal siblings.
J Pak Psych Soc Jan ;6(1):21-6.

Objective: To study the differences in perception between patients with schizophrenia and their normal siblings with regard to family functioning and support. Design: Cross-sectional study. Place & duration of study: The study was carried out in Get well clinic and nursing home , Mumbai, India from Janaury 2001 to January 2006. Subjects & Methods: 300 patients and 300 normal siblings were the subject of the study. A multidimensional semi-structured interview, the Family Functioning Scale, Family Assessment Device and Family Support Scale were used to elicit these differences. The data was tabulated and statistically analyzed. Results: Conflicts, expressiveness, organization, family sociability, laissez faire family style, democracy and idealization were the factors that were most significant on family functioning (p < 0.0005). Significant differences were also noted in perception of general family functioning and family support (p = 0.0001). Conclusions: We conclude that relatives and patients perceive their family and their family functioning differently and family dynamics must be delved into in the management of schizophrenia.

PakMediNet -Pakistan's largest Database of Pakistani Medical Journals - http://www.pakmedinet.com