Specifics of communication with schizophrenic patient

Abstract

The precondition of communication with schizophrenics is knowing and understanding of their fragmented and chaotic world. Communication with the schizophrenics should respect their fear of fusion and disintegration, as well as the fear of abandoning. In communication with the schizophrenic two facts are important: the real support is accepting the bizarre existence of the patient, and the other side of the support is the capacity of the psychiatrist to understand and withstand the patient. This capacity is determined through the consistency of therapist's behavior, possibility to accept the patient's right on regression, but also the ability to offer the constancy of himself, too. The therapist is the representative of the reality whose consequence and constant presence enables him to grow up from the internal mixture of the mental presentations into an authentic, independent person, dedicated to the patient. The therapist is expected to tolerate the patient's alienation due to the fears from fusion or disintegration. A constant activity of reestablishing of contact and respect of a specific cognitive style are needed. Communication with the schizophrenics implies an explicit calling to a verbal communication that has to be understandable, and searching for the conceptual framework, which provides understanding. Basic characteristics of the adequate communication are persistence, consequence and simplicity of instructions with the norm of behavior control, as well as the clarity of the “here-and-now” situation. The therapist's understanding of the schizophrenics justifies his actions and allows taking the psychotherapeutic attitude.Disclosure of interestThe authors have not supplied their declaration of competing interest.

Communication strategies for nursing research with older adults diagnosed with schizophrenia using life course theory

“…Shortened intervals can show respect for the potential challenges associated with a participant's diminished ability to concentrate (APA, 2013;Manojlovic & Nikolic-Popovic, 2016;Medvedev et al, 2021).…”

“…Many OADWS have a history of trauma, which may include physical and sexual abuse (Berg et al, 2015; Lysaker & Salyers, 2007). Disregard for their space may be worrisome to OADWS, and it can revive feelings associated with traumatic experiences (Manojlovic & Nikolic‐Popovic, 2016; Richmond et al, 2012). Giving space is a respectful communication tactic that acknowledges personal boundaries, and it can build trust in older adults (Allinson & Chaar, 2016).…”

“…This model supports the tailoring of nursing interventions, including nursing research, to the unique needs of the individual. S hortened intervals can show respect for the potential challenges associated with a participant's diminished ability to concentrate (APA, 2013; Manojlovic & Nikolic‐Popovic, 2016; Medvedev et al, 2021). OADWS may have had limited ability along their life course to share their thoughts and ideas in respectful environments.…”

“…Because many OADWS are limited in their ability to concentrate and focus for long periods of time, several short intervals for data collection may be a better communication strategy than single interviews (APA, 2013; Manojlovic & Nikolic‐Popovic, 2016; Mohn & Torgalsbøen, 2018). OADWS may welcome shortened intervals of communication with nurse researchers, and they may have greater difficulty with longer periods of time.…”

“…The life course theme of human lives in historical time and place can also inform the use of simple meaningful phrases as part of person‐centered care. In conducting nursing research with OADWS, simple meaningful phrases can help to accommodate for potentially diminished attention often associated with schizophrenia (APA, 2013; Manojlovic & Nikolic‐Popovic, 2016; Medvedev et al, 2021). The use of simple meaningful phrases promotes meaningful engagement (Corazzini et al, 2019; Fazio et al, 2018; Thomson et al, 2019).…”