Schizophrenia Is Not "Split Personality"

There is a common notion that schizophrenia is the same as "split personality" - a Dr. Jekyll-Mr. Hyde switch in character. This is not correct.

News and entertainment media tend to link mental illnesses like schizophrenia and criminal violence; however, studies indicate that except for those persons with a record of criminal violence before becoming ill, and those with substance abuse or alcohol problems, people with schizophrenia are not especially prone to violence. Most individuals with schizophrenia are not violent; more typically, they are withdrawn and prefer to be left alone.

Most violent crimes are not committed by persons with schizophrenia, and most persons with schizophrenia do not commit violent crimes. Substance abuse significantly raises the rate of violence in people with schizophrenia but also in people who do not have any mental illness. People with paranoid and psychotic symptoms, which can become worse if antipsychotic medications are discontinued, may also be at higher risk for violent behavior. When violence does occur, it is most frequently targeted at family members and friends, and more often takes place at home.

next: What About Suicide?