Dj. Miklowitz et al., VERBAL INTERACTIONS IN THE FAMILIES OF SCHIZOPHRENIC AND BIPOLAR AFFECTIVE PATIENTS, Journal of abnormal psychology, 104(2), 1995, pp. 268-276
Do verbal interactions between psychiatric patients and family members
covary with the diagnosis of the patient? This study compared relativ
es (usually parents) of schizophrenic (n = 42) and bipolar (n = 22) pa
tients on affective style (AS) or emotional-verbal behavior toward pat
ients in family interaction. Patients were compared on coping style or
verbal interactional behavior toward relatives. Relatives of schizoph
renic patients made more negative AS (particularly intrusive) statemen
ts to patients than relatives of bipolar patients. Schizophrenic patie
nts made fewer supportive statements and more self-denigrating stateme
nts to relatives than bipolar patients. Among families of bipolar pati
ents, negative AS in relatives was associated with oppositional, ''ref
using'' styles in patients. Implications for psychosocial intervention
s with these disorders are discussed.