Self-Management Therapy for Youth With Schizophrenia

The purpose of this study is to test the effectiveness of a family-centered, community-based, self-management intervention (Self-Management Therapy) for adolescents with schizophrenia. The study will test the intervention's effectiveness in improving the adolescents' behavior, thinking, mood, and use of substances such as drugs and alcohol. The study also will look at the effects of the patient on the family. The intervention involves training in recognizing symptoms of schizophrenia and in stress management, problem-solving, and social skills. Parents and siblings are included to gain knowledge and skills to support the adolescents. The Self-Management Therapy intervention is administered in small multiple-family groups in 12 sessions over 7-1/2 months. The effects of the intervention on the patient and his/her family are assessed prior to treatment, after 6 sessions, after 12 sessions, and in a follow-up visit 6 months after completion of sessions. A child may be eligible for this study if he/she: Is 15 to 19 years old and has been diagnosed with schizophrenia.