Genetics, Brain, Structure and Behavior Presentation Evaluation

Genetics, Brain, Structure and Behavior Presentation Evaluation

PSY/340

Genetics, Brain, Structure and Behavior Presentation Evaluation

Even though the causes of schizophrenia are undefined, genetics and bad genetics is what most scientists believe to be the culprit and is the largest reason for the diagnosis. The explanations for the neurological damage and the behavioral changes as well as the treatment and prevention for this illness very from case to case along as with any mental illness it effect’s each individual differently. The role of genetics does play a large part in the diagnosis of this mental disorder.

Schizophrenia is a chronic, severe, and disabling disorder that has affected people throughout history Schizophrenia is a serious brain disorder that distorts the way a person thinks, acts, expresses emotions, perceives reality, and relates to others. People with schizophrenia -- the most chronic and disabling of the major mental illnesses -- often have problems functioning in society, at work and at school, and in relationships. Schizophrenia can leave its sufferer frightened and withdrawn. It is a lifelong disease that cannot be cured but usually can be controlled with proper treatment. About 1 percent of Americans have this illness.

The neurological affects that schizophrenia has on the brain is that it causes significant Loss of Brain Gray Matter: Individuals with schizophrenia, including those who have never been treated, have a reduced volume of gray matter in the brain, especially in the temporal and frontal lobes. Recently neuroscientists have detected gray matter loss of up to 25% (in some areas). The damage begins in the parietal, or outer, regions of the brain but spread to the rest of the brain over a five year period. Patients with the worst brain tissue loss also had the worst symptoms, which included hallucinations, delusions, bizarre and psychotic thoughts, hearing voices, and depression. Some other affects that this illness has...