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Methods in Schizophrenia Diagnosis

Team A

September 1, 2017

University of Phoenix

Methods in Schizophrenia Diagnosis

Sampling Method

Schizophrenia is a known disorder, which is associated with a change in behavioral attributes, personality traits, and one's mental state. It is worth noting that the disorder can be diagnosed using various criteria; however, biological markers such as brain dysmorphology, neurochemical abnormalities, and neurocognitive dysfunction influence diagnostic results. In my research, I will employ purposeful sampling in efforts to acquire qualitative data, which will enhance a better understanding of schizophrenia diagnosis. It is worth stating that purposeful, also known as nonprobability sampling, will be relevant for this research because it allows for the incorporation of people understanding and perception regarding the subject matter. In the case of Schizophrenia, genetic contributions and environmental factors play an essential role in understanding the phenotypic expressions and etiology involved (Palinkas et al., 2015).

Diagnostic approaches used for Schizophrenia are based on assumptions due to the existence of overlapping disorders and the unknown nature of the disease process. It is important to note that purposeful sampling will be critical in determining findings from my qualitative research because it will facilitate understanding of the dynamics that influence Schizophrenia and predictors of successful implementation (Palinkas et al., 2015). The method will be applicable for my research because it centers on one objective, which is to determine the applicability of dementia praecox diagnosis in Schizophrenia disorder. Based on the diverse nature of data to be collected, purposeful sampling will be helpful because it enhances the use of information-rich cases to identify weaknesses in the diagnostic concept under discussion. It is essential to acknowledge that nonprobability sampling will also guide in communicating experiences and opinions by individuals with or diagnosed with Schizophrenia in the past (Palinkas et al., 2015). As a qualitative method, purposeful sampling will bring the aspects of depth and gaps in personal experiences to the study, which will validate the findings and conclusions made.

Inferential Statistics

In research where little or no relationship is noted between variables, the null hypothesis is rejected. I will employ inferential statistics because it helps in guiding research based on sample characteristics, which, in turn, influence the acceptability of the results. Inferential statistics aid in building theories, which end up justifying the internal and external validity of research (Lowry, 2014). In my research, I will consider the sample size, the existence of different variables in the research, and the nature/size of differences observed. It is worth pointing out that inferential statistics will also guide my approach to validating the nature of the sample and aspects evident in the data collected (Lowry, 2014). Notably, schizophrenia disorder diagnosis may differ based on age and gender, as these elements influence behavior, mental efficiency, and executive dysfunction. It is essential to note that schizophrenia is a complex condition, poised to constitute of various disorders.

Inferential statistics will be suitable for this research because Schizophrenia diagnosis revolves around studies of heredity, which help in classifying symptoms of the same psychosis name. Undeniably, there are unavoidable aspects of research that influence results, as well as participants’ reaction and response to practices, carried out during the sampling process. In this regard, inferential statistics will facilitate accountability for errors witnessed in data collection and sampling. With inferential statistics, it will be convenient to monitor differences brought by intrapersonal and situational factors, which will then minimize the aspects of bias witnessed in research (Lowry, 2014). I will require total cooperation from my sample because effectiveness in communication, ability to coordinate research proceedings, and behavior are critical in Schizophrenia diagnosis.

Definition and Explanation of Variables

Variables in this study are grouped as independent, dependent, and control variables. Dependent variables include the verbal ability/memory of participants, their attention in executing function, and IQ. Schizophrenia affects a patient’s ability to coordinate their memory, which, in turn, influences their memory (Jablensky, 2010). In this regard, dependent variables in my research will be helpful in assessing the communication abilities and skills possessed by patients, which, in turn, will influence understanding of their tendency to develop schizophrenia disorder. They will be considered as determinants of participants’ ability to understand and coordinate aspects related to schizophrenia. The lack of ability to communicate or think critically will insinuate that a patient’s memory is unstable, which, in turn, will be used as an indicator of the risk of developing schizophrenia (Jablensky, 2010). As stated earlier, schizophrenia disorder exists in the form of different combined health conditions; therefore, testing the dependent variables will not lead to the conclusion that one has developed the disorder.

Independent variables in the research will include treatment practices and morbidity services provided to patients (participants) with schizophrenia condition. They will be critical in defining the state of dependent variables in the study, which will help in validating the conclusions drawn. Control variables in this research will include neurochemical abnormalities and neurocognitive dysfunction (Jablensky, 2010). These variables are known to constitute of the specificity and sensitivity of a diagnostic test; however, their applicability will be based on the existence of evidence that they can cause schizophrenia among individuals from different age groups. It is worth noting that independent variable and control variables will have a critical role to play in my research.

Coordinating the application of independent variables and control values will be crucial in devising a suitable state of mind in which participants will cooperate effectively for relevant findings. Notably, success in incorporating the variables will help in designing an experiment that will effectively allow for the testing of individual genes to determine the relationship between schizophrenia and neurocognitive dysfunction, neurochemical abnormalities, as well as brain dysmorphology. It is worth noting that the complex nature of schizophrenia will be critical in enhancing attentiveness and observation of scientific research dynamics that hinder the attainment of logical results.

References

Jablensky, A. (2010). The diagnostic concept of schizophrenia: its history, evolution, and future prospects. Dialogues in clinical neuroscience, 12(3), 271.

Lowry, R. (2014). Concepts and applications of inferential statistics.

Palinkas, L. A., Horwitz, S. M., Green, C. A., Wisdom, J. P., Duan, N., & Hoagwood, K. (2015). Purposeful sampling for qualitative data collection and analysis in mixed method implementation research. Administration and Policy in Mental Health and Mental Health Services Research, 42(5), 533-544.