Distorted Perceptions of Reality

People with schizophrenia may have perceptions of reality that are strikingly different from the reality seen and shared by others around them. These perceptual changes are also believed to be due to abnormal brain chemical (dopamine) activity in particular brain regions. Living in a world distorted by hallucinations and delusions, individuals with schizophrenia may feel frightened, anxious, and confused.

In part, because of the unusual realities they experience, people with schizophrenia may behave very differently at various times. Sometimes they may seem distant, detached, or preoccupied and may even sit as rigidly as a stone, not moving for hours or uttering a sound. Other times they may move about constantly and be always occupied, appearing wide-awake, vigilant, and alert.

Schizophrenia is expressed in various ways in different people, and it is thought that these differences are related to different genes and environmental experiences of the individual. Symptoms can appear quickly, over a few days, or develop more gradually over a period of weeks, months or even years.  Often, there is a ‘prodromal’ phase before the onset of ‘full-blown’ schizophrenia where the behaviour changes.  These changes may be similar to the negative symptoms of schizophrenia.

We normally feel that we are in control of our thoughts and actions, but schizophrenia interferes with this perceived control. It may feel as though thoughts are being put into the mind or taken out by some outside, uncontrollable force. The body may feel as if it has been taken over, like a puppet or a robot under outside control. At worst, the whole personality seems under the influence of an alien force or spirit. This is a terrifying experience, which the person tries to explain according to education and upbringing. In 'high-tech' societies, invisible influences capable of working over a distance may be put down to radio, television or laser beams, or a computer somehow installed in the brain. In traditional and religious communities, witchcraft, angry spirits, God or the Devil may be held responsible.