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Motivational Deficits and Negative Symptoms in Schizophrenia: Concepts and Assessments

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Behavioral Neuroscience of Motivation

Part of the book series: Current Topics in Behavioral Neurosciences ((CTBN,volume 27))

Abstract

Recent years have seen a resurgence of interest in motivational disturbances in schizophrenia . This is largely driven by the recognition that these disturbances are central to the “experiential” subdomain of negative symptoms and are particularly important determinants of functional disability. Research into the causes and treatment of experiential negative symptoms is therefore a high priority. This chapter reviews findings from experimental psychopathology and affective science relevant to understanding the neurobehavioral processes that underlie these negative symptoms. We focus on abnormalities in four processes that have received the most attention as likely contributors: anticipatory pleasure, reward learning, effort-based decision-making, and social motivation. We also review the research literature on pharmacological and psychosocial approaches to reduce functional deficits attributable to negative symptoms. Translational research is beginning to inform the development of new treatments specifically designed to target the experiential subdomain of negative symptoms.

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Authors and Affiliations

  1. VA Greater Los Angeles Healthcare System, University of California, MIRECC 210A, Bldg. 210, 11301 Wilshire Blvd., Los Angeles, CA, 90073, USA

    L. Felice Reddy, William P. Horan & Michael F. Green

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  1. L. Felice Reddy
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  2. William P. Horan
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  3. Michael F. Green
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Correspondence to L. Felice Reddy .

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Editors and Affiliations

  1. New York State Psychiatric Institute, Columbia University Medical Center, New York, New York, USA

    Eleanor H. Simpson

  2. Barnard College, Columbia University Barnard College, New York, New York, USA

    Peter D. Balsam

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Reddy, L.F., Horan, W.P., Green, M.F. (2015). Motivational Deficits and Negative Symptoms in Schizophrenia: Concepts and Assessments. In: Simpson, E., Balsam, P. (eds) Behavioral Neuroscience of Motivation. Current Topics in Behavioral Neurosciences, vol 27. Springer, Cham. https://doi.org/10.1007/7854_2015_379

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