Relational control patterns in families of schizophrenics

Abstract

This paper reports an exploratory study of the patterning of relational control in families of schizophrenic patients, and the relationship between control in the family and the course of the illness. Data were transcripts of conversations among 17 schizophrenic outpatients and their families, which were coded into the Relational Control Coding System. Rigid, one-up messages from family members to patients were associated with negative changes in outcome measures. Implications are discussed.