The Role of Negative Symptoms and Social Cognition in Dysfunctionality in Individuals with Schizophrenia during Residual Period

Abstract

Schizophrenia is known as a complex thought disorder characterized by social, affective, and cognitive dysfunction in individuals. Although positive symptoms tend to grab the most spotlight, negative symptoms and social cognitive deficits are determinant factors of dysfunctional behavior, especially in the course of the residual phase. Using the WAIS task to measure attention span, the study here examines the prediction of dysfunctionality by social cognition and negative symptoms. A correlational design was employed in the study. The sample (N=150) was based on the individuals on antipsychotic medication with a diagnosis of schizophrenia, currently in residual phase. Both male and females with age range of 18-65 were taken as sample of the study.  The information was gathered with standardized questionnaires measuring negative symptoms and social cognition. The WAIS Digit Span was used to evaluate attention span. Linear regression and Pearson correlations were the statistical analyses employed. Negative symptoms were negatively correlated with social cognition (r = -0.407, p < 0.01) and cognitive theory of mind (r = -0.492, p < 0.01). Attention span was predicted by The affective theory of mind (β = -0.167, p = .042) and by negative symptoms (β = 0.189, p = .046) in regression. The 4.6% of the variance were explained by these parameters. The findings highlight the need to target both negative symptoms and social cognition impairments in treatment, as these areas significantly impact functional status in schizophrenia. Combined treatment strategies that target both symptom areas can improve attention and overall functioning throughout the residual period of illness