COGNITIVE THERAPY OF SCHIZOPHRENIA - THEORY AND EMPIRICAL STATUS

The empirical status of cognitive approaches to schizophrenia is prese nted. A review of outcome studies identifies patient characteristics, describes treatment components, delineates outcome and follow-up statu s (if available), and considers commonalties among therapy components. A ''clinical section,'' synthesized largely from the successful outco me studies, presents cognitive therapy principles and strategies adapt ed to treatment of schizophrenia. Theoretical issues, such as ecologic al validity and the necessity to target both disordered cognitive cont ent and processing, are briefly addressed. Finally, eight ''burning qu estions'' or issues for future research are suggested.