Family treatment of adult schizophrenic patients: a psycho-educational approach.

As part of a long-term study in schizophrenia, a model of family intervention has been developed which attempts to diminish relapse rates of schizophrenic patients. This model reflects theoretical and research findings which suggest that certain patients have a "core psychological deficit" that might increase vulnerability to external stimuli. While a program of maintenance chemotherapy attempts to decreae patient vulnerability, a series of highly structured, supportive, psycho-educational family interventions are aimed at de-intensifying the family environment in which the patient lives.