Schizophrenia in Children: Symptoms & Causes

What Causes Schizophrenia in Children?

Childhood schizophrenia usually affects children below the age of 13 years which means it affects pre-puberty children. The exact cause is yet unknown, however, it is believed that a combination of factors may contribute to the development of schizophrenia in children. Some contributing factors are as follows —

• Genetic Factors:

Schizophrenia tends to be hereditary. If a child has a first-degree relative, such as a parent or sibling, with schizophrenia, his/her risk of developing the disorder increases. There could be genes that might contribute to the development of schizophrenia, although no single gene probably causes the disorder on its own.

• Biological Factors:

Abnormalities in brain structure and function are often observed in individuals with schizophrenia. These may include differences in brain chemistry, such as imbalances in neurotransmitters like glutamate and dopamine, which are crucial for communication between nerve cells. Structural abnormalities, like enlarged ventricles and reduced grey matter, can also lead to schizophrenia.

• Environmental Factors:

Various environmental influences may trigger schizophrenia in children. These can include prenatal exposure to infections, malnutrition, or stress, as well as complications during birth. Early childhood trauma, like abuse or neglect, and high levels of chronic stress can also influence the onset of schizophrenia.

Signs of Schizophrenia in Children

Detecting schizophrenia in children can be challenging because the symptoms often overlap with other developmental and behavioural disorders. However, early identification is crucial for effective intervention. Here are some key signs of schizophrenia in children to look out for —

• Hallucinations:

One of the most prominent symptoms is hallucinations, particularly auditory hallucinations, where the child hears voices that are not present. These voices may be critical or commanding, and children might believe they are real.

• Delusions:

These are false beliefs that are firmly held despite evidence to the contrary. Children with schizophrenia might believe they have special powers, are being persecuted, or that ordinary events have extraordinary significance.

• Disorganised Thinking and Speech:

Children with schizophrenia often have trouble organising their thoughts. This can manifest as incoherent speech, jumping from one topic to another without logical connection, or difficulty concentrating and following instructions.

• Social Withdrawal:

A noticeable decline in social interactions is common. The child may become increasingly isolated, showing little interest in friends, family, or activities he/she previously enjoyed.

• Emotional and Behavioural Changes:

Emotional flatness or inappropriate emotional responses are indicators of this disorder in children. Additionally, there may be a marked decline in academic performance, erratic behaviour, and difficulty completing everyday tasks.

• Motor Disturbances:

Some children exhibit abnormal motor behaviours, ranging from agitated movements to complete immobility. They may also have trouble with coordination and fine motor skills.

Treatment of Childhood Schizophrenia

Early intervention is the key to treating schizophrenia in children. However, diagnosing schizophrenia at such an early age is often challenging, and most children do not get timely intervention. The treatment protocol for schizophrenia in children involves a combination of the following modes —

• Medication:

Antipsychotic medications are used in the treatment of schizophrenia. These drugs help manage symptoms like hallucinations, delusions, and disorganised thinking. However, finding the right medications and dosages can be a process of trial and error, and ongoing monitoring is essential to manage side effects.

• Therapy:

Psychotherapy plays a vital role in treatment. Cognitive-behavioural therapy (CBT) can help children understand and effectively manage their symptoms, develop coping strategies, and improve their functioning in day-to-day activities. Family therapy is also crucial, as it educates family members about the disorder and fosters a supportive home environment.

• Educational Support:

Children with schizophrenia often need tailored educational plans to accommodate their learning needs. Special education services and individualised education programs (IEPs) can help address cognitive and behavioural challenges, ensuring the child receives appropriate support in school.

• Social Skills Training:

This training can help children develop better interpersonal skills, improving their ability to interact with peers and adults. The training sessions can include role-playing and other techniques to teach appropriate social behaviours.

• Support Services:

Comprehensive treatment often involves collaboration with various support services, including case management, occupational therapy, and community resources. These support services aim to provide a holistic approach to care, addressing the child's overall well-being and helping them integrate into their community.