Date
3-10-2026
Department
School of Behavioral Sciences
Degree
Doctor of Philosophy in Psychology (PhD)
Chair
Cari M. Oliver
Keywords
schizophrenia, SSD, noncompliance, danger, violence, spiritual support, social support, family integration, IPA, resilience, hope, coping, United States
Disciplines
Counseling | Psychiatry and Psychology
Recommended Citation
Christmas, Ginger A., "The Schizophrenia Effect: Families Facing Schizophrenia-Spectrum Disorders" (2026). Doctoral Dissertations and Projects. 8018.
https://digitalcommons.liberty.edu/doctoral/8018
Abstract
Schizophrenia is primarily known for its bizarre psychosis, as the brain struggles to distinguish between what is real and what is not. This qualitative study employed constructive, interpretative phenomenological analysis (IPA) to explore the idea that families with a family member diagnosed with a schizophrenia-spectrum disorder (SSD) in the United States have specific needs, which may include social and spiritual support and integration into treatment. While the needs of families facing SSD have been studied in non-Western countries, the schizophrenia effect on families in the U.S. remains less understood. A purposive sample of 11 individuals, representing 15 family members with SSD, was selected, and semi-structured interviews provided data for IPA analysis. Findings revealed prevalent medication non-compliance, multiple relapses, and a significant lack of social and spiritual support. Families reported a high incidence of danger issues and violence directed toward them by the family member with SSD, which sharply contrasts with existing literature. These findings highlight key needs and potential solutions to inform treatment strategies for managing ongoing crises, supporting social and spiritual well-being, and involving families in treatment to reduce relapse rates among family members with SSD. The study also suggests implications for the Church in strengthening its role in building faith communities, fostering relationships, and supporting families with SSD. Furthermore, it indicates that offering hope through social and spiritual support can foster resilience and meaningful coping amid adversity, distress, and grief; the quest is to bring hope to families that face the schizophrenia effect.
