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

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