Family therapy and schizophrenia: recent developments.

A review of recent studies of family interaction as a causal factor in the development of schizophrenia suggests a paucity of evidence supporting this point of view. However, research has suggested family variables may influence the course and outcome of schizophrenia. The impact of schizophrenia on the family has recently received more attention. Some research has identified differences between families of schizophrenics and the families of other diagnostic groups and controls. Whether these studies are beginning to influence the theory and practice of family therapy is discussed. Recent studies suggest the combination of long-acting medication and 'psychosocial' interventions may reduce the relapse rate of schizophrenia in the short term. This research suggests that family therapists must re-evaluate their role in the management of schizophrenia.

The inquiry approach in dental hygiene education.

A study was done to assess the impact of an inquiry-oriented curriculum in a dental hygiene program. Two instruments, designed to measure student perception of personal and faculty inquiry and disinquiry behavior, were administered to four consecutive classes twice a year between 1978 and 1981. Junior and senior students perceived a significant increase in faculty inquiry behavior and, initially, a decrease in disinquiry behavior. Time in the program affected student disinquiry behavior at a significant level, though no significant change was seen in inquiry behavior. National Board mean scores improved, and several categories of clinical productivity increased significantly during this period. The implications of these findings are discussed.

Dimensions of intimacy in marriage.

Intimacy as an important aspect of interpersonal relationships has been widely accepted (Erikson 1950, Sullivan 1953). In the broad context, an understanding of the role of intimacy has been discussed as essential to the development of a science of interpersonal relationships (Hinde 1978). More specifically, intimacy has been cited as an important dimension of the marital interpersonal relationship (Berman and Lief 1975). This paper describes a study of intimacy in 30 young married couples, randomly selected from the general population. Personal identity and accurate perception of the spouse were significant correlates of marital intimacy, and a factor analysis revealed four dimensions of marital relationships: compatibility, structure, intimacy, and problem-solving. In this study, marital adjustment was significantly correlated with expressiveness, commitment, organization, expressed affection, and the absence of conflict. These findings are discussed in the context of the role of intimacy in a science of interpersonal behavior.