An Exploration into the Psychotic Symptoms Associated with Schizophrenia and Major Depressive Disorder

Authors

• Kyndester Michael-Samaroo, University of Central FloridaFollow

Mentor

Dr. Kiminobu Sugaya

Abstract

This research examines the neurological similarities between schizophrenia and major depressive disorder with psychotic features to compare the manifestations of psychosis in each disorder. Both disorders often involve symptoms of psychosis, although the disorders overall are very different. We hypothesize that the neurological similarities between schizophrenia and major depressive disorder with psychotic features will provide researchers with the strategies needed to develop a treatment for psychotic symptoms. In order to test this hypothesis, five related studies were gathered for each disorder, and three studies were gathered for psychosis. These studies were then analyzed to pinpoint any similarities among factors for psychosis, and this analysis allowed for the determination of whether the hypothesis would be rejected. The results indicated that many of the similarities between the two disorders cannot be verified because of the lack of substantial research.

About the Author

Kyndester Michael-Samaroo, a Canada native who grew up in Florida, graduated from UCF with a degree in Biomedical Sciences. She is currently pursuing a Master’s in Public Health, and hopes to be able to help communities to be safe and healthy. She plans to continue to conduct research on psychological and physical health as she progresses in her career. When she isn’t studying or doing research, you can find her writing, volunteering, or working out.

Recommended Citation

Michael-Samaroo, Kyndester (2020) "An Exploration into the Psychotic Symptoms Associated with Schizophrenia and Major Depressive Disorder," The Pegasus Review: UCF Undergraduate Research Journal: Vol. 12: Iss. 1, Article 4.
Available at: https://stars.library.ucf.edu/urj/vol12/iss1/4