PRACTICE PARAMETERS FOR THE ASSESSMENT AND TREATMENT OF CHILDREN AND ADOLESCENTS WITH SCHIZOPHRENIA

These practice parameters review the literature on children and adoles cents with schizophrenia. Because this literature is sparse, informati on is also drawn from research with adults. Clinical features in youth with schizophrenia include predominance in males, high rate of premor bid abnormalities, increased family history of schizophrenia, and ofte n poor outcome. Diagnostic issues include the overlap, and therefore p otential for misdiagnosis, between the first presenting symptoms of sc hizophrenia and those of psychotic mood disorders, developmental disor ders, organic conditions, and other nonpsychotic emotional/behavioral disorders. Treatment should include using antipsychotic medications in conjunction with psychoeducational, psychotherapeutic, and social and educational support programs.