Changes in body image following sensory deprivation in schizophrenic and control groups.

Abstract
This study concerns body image changes in schizophrenic and nonpsychotic groups following a sensory deprivation experience. 20 schizophrenics and 20 nonpsychotics were examined before and after a sensory deprivation period with a test battery assessing various aspects of body image. A control group of 20 schizophrenics was similarly tested and retested but with no period of sensory deprivation intervening. This latter group showed no change in any of the body image measures pre- to posttesting. However, the 2 experimental groups demonstrated a number of changes in body image following sensory deprivation, with schizophrenics evidencing a degree of reintegration and nonpsychotics more disintegration in body image. (19 ref.) (PsycINFO Database Record (c) 2006 APA, all rights reserved)