Effect of child abuse and neglect on schizophrenia and other psychotic disorders

Childhood experiences impact long-term physical and behavioral health outcomes including potential risk for schizophrenia and psychosis. Negative experiences, such as child abuse and neglect, have been specifically associated with risk for schizophrenia and psychosis. This review provides a brief overview of child abuse and neglect, including its position within the larger field of trauma and adversity and its long term consequences. The link to schizophrenia is then explored. Principles of treatment and outcomes for schizophrenia with antecedent child abuse and neglect are then reviewed. Finally, next steps and points of prevention are highlighted. •Child maltreatment is known to impact long-term physical and mental health, including risk of schizophrenia and psychosis.•Presentation, treatment, and outcomes for schizophrenia may be augmented by antecedent child abuse and neglect.•Additional research is needed to optimize outcomes and efforts focused on prevention are warranted.