Sociodemographic features related to violent behavior in schizophrenia

Introduction. It has been proposed that some sociodemographic variables may predict violent behavior in schizophrenic patients. The aim of this study was to investigate the relationship of violent behavior with sociodemographic and clinical features in schizophrenic patients. Method. We included 106 schizophrenic patients. Sociodemographic and clinical characteristics of each patient were recorded in a previously designed record. Violent behaviors were assessed with the Overt Aggression Scale (OAS). Results. From the total sample, 49.1% of the patients were classified as violent. Marital status, alcohol abuse, number of previous psychiatric hospitalizations and age of first hospitalization were predictive variables for violent behavior in schizophrenia. Discussion. Predictive sociodemographic variables for violence in schizophrenia are easy to measure during the first interview with the patient and can be useful for the prevention of future violence.