The heterogeneity of memory dysfunction in schizophrenia.

OBJECTIVE To characterize the memory dysfunction of schizophrenic patients. METHOD The components of the human memory system are described, and then a review of the various memory deficits identified among patients suffering from schizophrenia is presented. Finally, an overview of the latest developments in the comprehension of schizophrenia and a discussion on certain proposals advanced by various researchers in the field intended to shed light on the disorder is provided. RESULTS Schizophrenia appears to be an amalgamation of many different disorders. No single model for identifying the disorder has been able to encompass every aspect of schizophrenia. CONCLUSION Future studies will need to consider new ways of selecting and grouping schizophrenic patients.