29th January 2024

Hebephrenic/disorganised Schizophrenia

This form of schizophrenia, also known as ‘disorganised schizophrenia,’ describes a presentation in which affective changes and disorganised behaviour and speech are prominent. Observing these individuals will identify extreme activity that is purposeless and non-constructive. Characteristically, their thought patterns and speech are obviously disorganised and incoherent. They may be seen laughing or smiling inappropriately, demonstrating an incongruent effect characteristic of this subtype. Hebephrenic schizophrenia usually develops between the ages of 15-25 and can only be diagnosed if the onset is within this age range. They carry a poorer prognosis compared to other forms of schizophrenia due to the rapid development of negative symptoms. Hallucinations and delusions may be present but are not normally prominent. A period of observation over 2-3 months is essential in making the diagnosis.