Effect of Problem Solving Skills Program on Self -Control Behaviors and Negative Symptoms among Patients with Schizophrenia

Background: Problem solving skills program can be considered as a core strategy that helps patients with schizophrenia to increase their self- control to address problems in a systematic manner and to cope with the burden of their negative symptoms. Aim: The objective of the current research was to evaluate the effect of problem solving skills program on self -control behaviors and negative symptoms among patients with schizophrenia. Subjects and Method: Research design: The study's aim was achieved through utilizing a quasi-experimental (One group; Pre, posttest) research design. Subjects: A purposive sample of established diagnosed sixty hospitalized clients with schizophrenia at Minia Hospital for Mental Health and addiction treatment were selected. Tools: Personal and clinical data sheet, Self-Control Scale, and the Brief Negative Symptom Scale were utilized. Results: Findings proved high statistically significant differences in the global scores of self -control and negative symptoms scales before and after program implementation. Conclusion: Problem solving skills program is an effective strategy in improving self -control behaviors of patients with schizophrenia and their negative symptoms. Recommendations: More effort should be undertaken to involve problem-solving skills program as a component of a holistic psychosocial interventions to schizophrenic patients.