Abstract
The purpose of this thesis is to critique the literature focusing on the role of pineal gland volume and function and the development of schizophrenia by asking the question, "What is the relationship between pineal gland physiologic function and development and symptom severity of schizophrenia? It is crucial that health care providers continue advocate for better understanding of schizophrenia in order to develop a more appropriate treatment and relive the suffering of those with schizophrenia. A review of published literature focusing on the pineal glands association with schizophrenia was performed using several databases including: ScienceDirect, PubMED, Google Scholar, Cumulated Index to Nursing and Allied Health Literature (CINAHL), and Elton B. Stephens Co. (EBESCO). Key search terms included: Pineal gland, melatonin and schizophrenia, pineal gland and schizophrenia, sleep and schizophrenia, melatonin and treatment for schizophrenia, alternative treatments for schizophrenia, and pineal volume and schizophrenia. Based on current researching findings, it is my prediction that the chief consensus among the literature will be that physiologic abnormalities often coincided with schizophrenia, but do not indicate the severity of the disease or seem to have a strong correlation to the cause of the disease. It is also my prediction that alternative therapies will be beneficial in reducing symptoms severity, and adverse effects cause by psychiatric medications.
Thesis Completion
2021
Semester
Spring
Thesis Chair/Advisor
Bushy, Angeline
Degree
Bachelor of Science in Nursing (B.S.N.)
College
College of Nursing
Department
Nursing
Language
English
Access Status
Open Access
Release Date
5-1-2021
Recommended Citation
Margretta, Kathryn, "Pineal Gland Abnormalities and the Relationship of Melatonin to the Development and Symptom Severity of Schizophrenia: An Integrative Review of the Literature" (2021). Honors Undergraduate Theses. 913.
https://stars.library.ucf.edu/honorstheses/913