COGNITIVE THEORY APPLIED TO THE TREATMENT OF DELUSIONS OF SCHIZOPHRENIA

This article reviews theory regarding cognitive interventions in schiz ophrenia, focusing particularly on the treatment of delusions. The cog nitive theory of psychopathology is first introduced and the specific goals of cognitive therapy are then presented. A range of philosophica l and etiologic perspectives on the nature of delusions are explored, including the cognitive perspective. Specific stages and techniques of therapy are discussed with theoretical underpinnings and suggestions for incorporation in advanced practice psychiatric nursing. Copyright (C) 1996 by W.B. Saunders Company