DISABILITY AND EXECUTIVE FUNCTIONS IN SCHIZOPHENIA: A CROSSSECTIONAL STUDY. (RELATION BETWEEN DISABILITY AND POSITIVE, NEGATIVE SYMPTOMS)

Abstract

The aim of the study was to see if there is any association between disability, positive- negative symptoms in patients of schizophrenia.

Study had a crossectional design with purposive sampling in 50 patients with schizophrenia. Subjects were assessed using   sociodemographic        and clinical data sheet, PANSS, IDEAS (disability) .

The result of the study revealed a significant association was seen between IDEAS and WCST variables in patients of schizophrenia. A significant association was also seen between PANSS (positive and negative score) with IDEAS and WCST variables (disability and executive functions being more strongly associated with negative symptoms). On correlation analysis of socio-demographic and clinical data with IDEAS and WCST variables, a significant correlation (positive) of age and duration of illness was seen with IDEAS.

Executive functions and negative symptoms are crucial for functional outcome and independent living and are important target for intervention in order to reduce disability and improve quality of life in patients suffering from Schizophrenia.

Keywords: Schizophrenia, Disability, Positive–negative symptoms, Executive functions.