Modèle cognitivocomportemental de la schizophrénie

The cognitive and behavioral model takes into account the schizophrenic patient ecology as a whole in order to help him functionning in an adequate manner within his own environment. This model is included in the concept of vulnerability wich emphazises the role of stress factors and cognitive impairments in triggering the symptoms. Il also emphazises that protection factors against stress are important to prevent a relapse. For more than forty years, number of studies have been showing that patients are able to learn useful social behaviors through behavioral therapy. Behavioral techniques such as the operating conditioning and psycho-educational training underly social skill enhancement. Structured help for the family reduces the rate of relapses and hospitalisations. Case management is an effective strategy to mobilise the patient and his family in supporting a project of life. First of all, it needs a very careful evaluation of the patient' behavioral and cognitive skills. Then the techniques are adapted to the patient' characteristics and have to be used for a long time. They are controlled by the multi-disciplinary team as a whole. The long-term goal merges with rehabilitation therapy.