children s health issues
Schizophrenia in Children and Adolescents
Introduction
Schizophrenia is a chronic disorder involving abnormal thoughts, perceptions, and social behavior and causing considerable problems with relationships and functioning. It lasts 6 months or more. Schizophrenia is probably caused by chemical abnormalities in the brain and by problems during the brain’s development. Adolescents withdraw, start having unusual emotions, and usually have hallucinations, delusions, and paranoia. Doctors do tests to rule out other possible causes. Antipsychotic medications can help control symptoms, and counseling can help adolescents and family members learn how to manage the disorder. Schizophrenia is quite rare in childhood before adolescence. It typically begins anytime from mid-adolescence to a person's mid-30s, most often during a person's mid-20s. (See also Schizophrenia in adults.) Schizophrenia probably occurs because of chemical abnormalities in the brain and problems during the brain’s development, which occur during pregnancy and early childhood. Doctors do not know exactly what causes these abnormalities. However, experts agree that people can inherit a tendency to develop schizophrenia and that it is not caused by poor parenting or difficulties during childhood. Recent research also indicates that there is an increased risk of developing certain psychotic disorders (namely, Bipolar Disorder and schizophrenia) among young adolescents who use cannabis products. This increased risk is not explained by genetic factors. There is concern that the recent legalization of marijuana may give adolescents (and their parents) a false sense of security about using this drug. 