What is the core claim of Social Drift Theory regarding schizophrenia?

It suggests that individuals with schizophrenia 'drift' down the social hierarchy into lower social classes. This happens because the symptoms of the disorder make it difficult to maintain employment and social relationships.

How does 'disengagement' contribute to the downward mobility of a person with schizophrenia?

Disengagement occurs when symptoms like disorganized thinking or lack of motivation cause an individual to withdraw from social norms and work. This leads to a loss of income and social support, pushing them further down the social ladder.

What is the difference between Social Drift Theory and Social Causation Theory?

Social Drift argues that schizophrenia causes a decline into poverty (Illness $\rightarrow$ Poverty). Social Causation argues that the stress and deprivation of poverty trigger the onset of schizophrenia (Poverty $\rightarrow$ Illness).

Why is 'societal rejection' considered a barrier to recovery in schizophrenia?

Stigma and discrimination lead to exclusion from jobs and communities. This isolation reinforces the individual's disengagement and traps them in a cycle of poverty, making rehabilitation much harder.

What is a common error when interpreting the link between social class and schizophrenia diagnosis?

Assuming the link is purely biological or environmental without considering diagnostic bias. Psychiatrists might be more likely to diagnose working-class individuals due to class-based misunderstandings rather than actual symptom prevalence.

What does the 'vicious cycle' in Social Drift Theory describe?

It describes how symptoms lead to social withdrawal and job loss, which leads to poverty and rejection, which then increases stress and worsens symptoms. This cycle makes it extremely difficult for individuals to regain their previous social status.

How do 'negative symptoms' specifically impact an individual's social status?

Negative symptoms like avolition (lack of drive) and poor concentration prevent individuals from functioning in high-pressure environments like work or school. This leads to financial instability and a gradual decline in social standing.

What is the 'Cause and Effect' problem in psychological explanations of schizophrenia?

It is the difficulty in determining whether psychological/social factors (like social drift) are the cause of the disorder or merely a consequence of having the disorder. Most research is correlational, not causal.

Define 'Downward Mobility' in the context of schizophrenia.

It is the movement of an individual from a higher socioeconomic status to a lower one. In schizophrenia, this is often seen when people from middle-class backgrounds end up in working-class or unemployed categories by the time they receive care.

How does Social Drift Theory contrast with biological explanations?

Social Drift focuses on the social consequences and environmental interactions of the disorder. Biological explanations focus on internal factors like dopamine levels and brain structure, often ignoring the impact of social status.

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Psychological Explanation of Schizophrenia

Summary

The psychological explanation of schizophrenia primarily focuses on Social Drift Theory, which posits that the disorder causes individuals to descend the social hierarchy. This downward mobility is driven by a self-reinforcing cycle where the symptoms of schizophrenia lead to social disengagement and societal rejection, ultimately trapping the individual in a state of poverty and social exclusion.

1. Definition & Core Concepts

Social Drift Theory is a psychological and sociological framework suggesting that individuals with schizophrenia 'drift' downward into lower social classes over time.
Unlike theories that suggest poverty causes mental illness, this theory argues that the onset of the disorder is the primary driver of declining social status.
The theory highlights that the severe cognitive and behavioral symptoms of schizophrenia make it increasingly difficult for individuals to maintain their previous social and economic standing.
Downward Mobility refers to the transition from a higher social class (e.g., middle class) to a lower one (e.g., working class or unemployed) as the disorder progresses.

2. The Process of Disengagement

Disengagement occurs when individuals with schizophrenia withdraw from the standard expectations and activities of everyday society.
Positive symptoms, such as hallucinations and disorganized thinking, can make it nearly impossible to follow social norms or communicate effectively with others.
Negative symptoms, including avolition (lack of motivation) and poor concentration, often prevent individuals from maintaining steady employment or completing education.
As individuals struggle to keep jobs or pay bills, they lose their financial independence and social connections, leading to physical and emotional isolation.

A circular flow diagram illustrating the Social Drift cycle: Symptoms lead to Disengagement, which leads to Social Drift (poverty), which leads to Rejection, further exacerbating Symptoms.

3. Societal Rejection & The Vicious Cycle

4. Key Distinctions: Drift vs. Causation

5. Exam Strategy & Tips

6. Common Pitfalls & Misconceptions