Objective: The concept of duration of untreated psychosis or DUP has been a
strong candidate for intervention as part of the early intervention paradi
gm. However, its importance has been questioned. This paper aims to present
selected issues concerning attempts to reduce DUP and evaluate the impact
of these attempts.
Method: Current research designs are critiqued and alternatives considered.
Results: Evidence suggests that it is difficult to design studies that are
both ethical and potent enough to determine the contribution of treatment d
elay to outcome.
Conclusions: Further research is justified but this should not obstruct com
monsense service reforms.