The Multidimensionality of Schizotypy

Abstract

We present an overview of self-report scales for measuring schizotypy and a review of factor-analytical studies of these scales. These studies show that schizotypy is a multidimensional construct consisting of three or four factors. Positive Schizotypy, Negative Schizotypy, Nonconformity, and possibly Social Anxiety/Cognitive Disorganization. Clinical and external validation studies provide support for the construct validity of the Positive Schizotypy and Negative Schizotypy factors, but as yet fail to support the Nonconformity and Social Anxiety/Cognitive Disorganization factors. In accordance with this multidimensional structure, the scales for measuring schizotypy can be classified as factor-specific scales. We consider the striking similarities between the multidimensionality of schizotypal traits and the multidimensionality of schizophrenic symptoms. We also look at the similarities and differences between schizotypy and normal personality traits. Some practical and theoretical implications of these relationships are discussed.

Neural processing of criticism and positive comments from relatives in individuals with schizotypal personality traits

“…It may lead to greater understanding of in schizotypal individuals is thought to correspond to some negative symptoms in psychosis patients (Vollema and van den Bosch 1995). Individuals with schizotypal traits may also resemble schizophrenia patients in terms of genetics (Fanous et al 2001;Fanous et al 2007), neuropsychological ability (Ettinger et al 2005;Gooding et al 2006) and neurobiology (Kumari et al 2004;Bollini et al 2007; Kumari et al 2008).…”

“…The relative was defi ned as a parent, sibling or partner who had at least 10 h per week contact, either living together or in phone contact, with the participant. It was hypothesized that compared to the LS group, the HS group may show (a) increased activity in response to relative criticism in the brain regions normally associated with cognitive control of emotional stimuli, namely DLPFC, rostral ACC and PCC (Gray et al 2002;Pessoa 2008;Kompus et al 2009), and (b) decreased activity of reward areas during positive comments due to lower mood (Vollema and van den Bosch 1995). The DLPFC is over-activated in schizophrenia patients during cognitive control of emotional stimuli (Park et al 2008).…”

Do Positive Schizotypal Symptoms Predict False Perceptual Experiences in Nonclinical Populations?

“…The inventory includes four scales, following factor-analytic studies that have revealed three or four factors underlying the construct of schizotypy (Bentall et al, 1989;Vollema and van den Bosch, 1995). The first three scales correspond to a three-factor model of schizophrenia (Liddle, 1987): positive (Unusual Experiences: 30 items), negative (Introvertive Anhedonia: 27 items), and disorganized (Cognitive Disorganization: 24 items).…”

The structure of schizotypy: relationships between neurocognitive and personality disorder features in relatives of schizophrenic patients in the UCLA Family Study

“…Another popular viewpoint that Peter Venables and others have advocated is that there are several relatively independent dimensions of schizotypal personality disorder that may be similar to dimensions of symptoms in schizophrenia (e.g., Battaglia et al, 1997;Bergman et al, 1996;Fogelson et al, 1999;Kendler et al, 1995;Raine et al, 1994;Venables and Bailes, 1994;Vollema and van den Bosch, 1995). Thus, schizotypy, as indexed by personality signs and symptoms, is likely to be a complex, multidimensional construct.…”