Controversies About the Psychotherapy of Schizophrenia
JOHN G. GUNDERSON M.D.1
1 Assistant Chief, Center for Studies of Schizophrenia, Clinical Research Branch, Division of Extramural Research Programs, National Institute of Mental Health, 5600 Fishers Lane, Rockville, Md. 20852
The author discusses the current controversies over the psychotherapeutic treatment of schizophrenics that have come out of an NIMH program involving experienced clinicians. The controversies concern where to focus content, what techniques to employ, and what theories can be derived from intensive psychotherapy with schizophrenic patients. He concludes that studies of interactional variables and greater communication among clinicians are required to facilitate an understanding of what the therapeutic effects of such psychotherapy may be.
