MANAGING NEGATIVE SYMPTOMS OF SCHIZOPHRENIA

1: Definition and measurement of negative symptoms in schizophrenia, István Bitter
2: Basic symptoms in deficit states and their relation to negative symptoms, Frauke Schultze-Lutter
3: Long-term course of negative symptoms in schizophrenia, Anatoly Smulevich and Dmitry Romanov
4: The patients view: Self-evaluation of negative symptoms, Sonia Dollfus and Anais Vandevelde
5: Pharmacologic treatment of negative symptoms: focus on efficacy, Pál Czobor and Istvan Bitter
6: Psychosocial/non-pharmacologic treatment of negative symptoms: focus on efficacy, Mark Savill

Schizophrenia is one of the most severe psychiatric disorders, carrying with it significant stigma and a number of debilitating symptoms. While material on its "positive" symptoms, such as hallucinations and delusions, is readily available, its "negative" symptoms, which present heterogeneously as deficits across a variety of domains, are not nearly so well-documented and often go undiagnosed with no effective treatment. Given the poor functioning and outcomes which occur as a result of these symptoms, it is imperative they receive greater focus.

Part of the Oxford Psychiatry Library (OPL) series, this concise pocketbook provides readers with a comprehensive overview of the definition, evaluation, and treatment of negative symptoms. Written by experts in the field, with key points at the beginning of each chapter for quick reference, this is an invaluable resource for any mental health care professional working with individuals affected by schizophrenia.

Features
• Practical and concise guide to managing the negative symptoms of schizophrenia.
• Helpful 'key points' section at the start of each chapter.
• Portable, accessible format for quick-reference.

Author
István Bitter, Professor, Department of Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, Semmelweis University, Budapest, Hungary