Theory of mind variability in schizophrenia: A neurodevelopmental perspective through neurological soft signs and premorbid adjustment.

ABSTRACT:

Background

Theory of Mind (ToM) is impaired in individuals with schizophrenia (SZ). Given the neurodevelopmental nature of both social cognition and SZ, variations in ToM abilities likely originate early in life. Thus, indirect markers of altered neurodevelopment, such as neurological soft signs (NSS) and premorbid adjustment (PA), may help explain ToM differences.

Methods

The study included 38 patients diagnosed with a schizophrenia-spectrum disorder (SSD), 26 healthy siblings and 47 controls. ToM was assessed using the Hinting Task (HT). NSS were evaluated with the Neurological Evaluation Scale (NES) and PA with the Premorbid Adjustment Scale (PAS), yielding Social and Academic scores. Intelligence Quotient (IQ, WAIS-III) and Family History (FH, Family Interview for Geneti

SUBMITTER: Giralt-Lopez M 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC12356329 | biostudies-literature | 2025 Dec

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature