 The IDEA defines Schizophrenia as an Emotional Disturbance… › A condition exhibiting one or more of the following characteristics over a long period of time that affects a child’s educational performance ("Categories of disability," 2012) :  An inability to learn that cannot be explained by intellectual, sensory, or health factors  An inability to build or maintain satisfactory interpersonal relationships with peers and teachers. Inappropriate types of behavior or feelings under normal circumstances.  A general pervasive mood of unhappiness or depression.  A tendency to develop physical symptoms or fears associated with personal or school problems ("Categories of disability," 2012).

 The prevalence rate for individuals with Schizophrenia is approximately 1.1% of the nation’s population over the age of 18 ("Schizophrenia facts and," ) This is the same as saying 51 million people worldwide suffer from Schizophrenia. ("Schi zophrenia facts and," )

 There are many characteristics and signs of schizophrenia: › Individuals may see things and hear voices that are not real. › Individuals may be extremely moody ("What is schizophrenia?," 2012). › Individuals may experience severe anxiety and fearfulness as well as severe problems ("What is schizophrenia?," 2012). › Individuals will experience hallucinations and delusions(Smith, 2012). › Individuals will experience emotional flatness and apathy(Smith, 2012). Individuals will also develop cognitive characteristics such as… Disorganized or lack of speech and, Disorganized or unresponsive behavior. (Smith, 2012)

 Although the causes are not fully known this disability could come from environmental, genetic, or brain abnormalities. › Genetic causes:  Individuals with a first degree relative (parent or sibling) effected by schizophrenia have a 10% chance of developing this disability. Environmental causes:  Environmental causes include stress during pregnancy or at later stages of development  Prenatal exposure to a viral infection, low oxygen levels during birth, from prolonged labor or premature birth. And early parental loss or separation. Abnormalities in brain structure can also cause schizophrenia.

 With much research there are many ways to find instruction on how to accommodate students with this disability… › Graphic organizers › Worksheets to organize thoughts(Some schizophrenics have problems with memory). › Mnemonic devices help students remember list information and process order › Private feedback on academic performance › Let student choose seating arrangement › Allow student to leave for breaks during class › Assign another classmate as students assistant › Address a variety of learning styles › Incorporate experiential learning activities › Extended time to complete assignments. (Souma, )

 Low-tech and high-tech assistive devices can be used for individuals… › Low-Tech  Teachers use Behavior Charts and point systems in classrooms to make sure students are well behaved and students can also have specific goals for the week. › High-Tech  Students can use iPods to listen to calm and relaxing music to lower stress level.

 Here are some links and things providing more information about Schizophrenia… › Every day Health website › articles.aspx articles.aspx › Informative Video about Schizophrenia › › Book Title “Schizophrenia: Life Balance” by Elaine Landau PLA-_-Book-_-Q _ &cm_mmca2=pla&r=1 SARDAA-Schizophrenia and related disorders alliance of America a website dedicated to supporting people with schizophrenia and other disorders This article from the website Psych Central describes the different types of Schizophrenia

Bernard, J. (2007, May). Technology aided strategies for students who are emotionally disturbed. Retrieved from Aided Strategies for students who are Emotionally Disturbed Categories of disability under idea. (2012, March). Retrieved from Schizophrenia facts and statistics. ( ). Retrieved from Smith, M. (2012, October). Schizophrenia understanding the signs,symptoms,and causes. Retrieved from Souma, A. ( ). Achieving equal access through accommodations and universal design. Retrieved from What is schizophrenia?. (2012). Retrieved from C84C5539FAB