er, and play an active role in the therapeutic process. (Abnormal Psychology, third edition), Ronald J. ComerAnother type of therapy is called insight therapy. A variety of insight therapies are now applied to schizophrenia. Studies suggest that insight therapist who are more experienced with schizophrenia have greater success, often regardless of their particular orientation. According to one study, therapists whose treatment is successful tend to Page 7make a more active role than less successful therapists, setting limits, expressing opinions, challenging patient's statements, and providing guidance. At the same time, gaining patience's trust remains a major part of therapy. (Abnormal Psychology, third edition), Ronald J. ComerFamily therapy is another type used with schizophrenic patients. Between 25 and 40 percent of community residents who are recovering from schizophrenia live with their parents, siblings, spouses, or children. Such unions create special pressures for both the patients and the family members. Patients who are recovering from schizophrenia are greatly affect by the behavior and reactions of family members, even if family dysfunction was not a factor in the onset of the patient's disorder. Indeed, it has been found that persons with schizophrenia who have positive perceptions of their relatives do better in treatment. Family members, for their part, are often greatly affected by the behavior of a relative with schizophrenia. To address such issues, clinicians now commonly include family therapy in their treatment of schizophrenia. Family therapy provides family members with guidance, training, practical advice, education about schizophrenia and emotional support and empathy. It helps family members become more realistic in their expectations, more tolerant, less guilt-ridden, and more willing to try new patterns of interaction and communication. Over the course of treatment, family therapists also try...
