Why do most researchers consider schizophrenia a brain disorder? Explain the genetic predispositions, prenatal problems and aspects of adolescent biology that influence schizophrenia

Question

What will be an ideal response?

Answer 1

Answer: A good answer will include the following key points.
? Most individuals with schizophrenia have abnormalities in the brain. This includes a decrease in the volume of gray matter in the prefrontal cortex and temporal lobes, abnormalities in the hippocampus and thalamus, abnormalities in neurotransmitters and neural activity, and enlargement of the ventricles.
? Many people who have schizophrenia also have deficiencies in the auditory cortex and Broca's and Wernicke's area.
? Evidence from twin studies suggests that there is a genetic predisposition for schizophrenia, but the genes apparently involved are also linked to other mental disorders (e.g. autism, attention deficit/hyperactivity disorder, bipolar disorder, and even dyslexia).
? Prenatal problems or birth complications increase the likelihood of schizophrenia: if the mother suffers from malnutrition during pregnancy, if the mother contracts the flu virus during the first four months of a pregnancy, and if there are complications during birth that injure the baby's brain or deprive it of oxygen.
? Adolescent abnormalities in brain development (notably, an excess pruning of synapses) may explain why the first full-blown schizophrenic episode typically occurs in adolescence or early adulthood.