Prodromal Symptoms and QOL in the FDRs of Patients with Schizophrenia

Abstract: Background: First-degree relatives (FDRs) of patients with schizophrenia disorder (PSD) have an elevated familial risk for developing psychosis. As the primary caregivers, FDRs experience many challenges during the caregiving process, which can impact their overall quality of life (QOL). The FDRs of PSD face not only stigma and discrimination but also internalize these in the form of affiliate stigma. Studies have explored the correlates of public stigma and caregiving burden among FDRs, yet there is a research gap regarding the moderating effect of affiliate stigma and caregiving duration for the relationship of QOL with depression, anxiety, and prodromal symptoms of psychosis. Aim: To explore the role of affiliate stigma and caregiving duration for developing anxiety, depression, and prodromal symptoms of psychosis in FDRs of PSD. Furthermore, to understand the moderating effect of affiliate stigma and caregiving duration on the relationship of QOL with depression, anxiety, and prodromal symptoms of psychosis. Method: We administered the HADS, the WHO-QOL Scale, the ASS, and the PROD-Screen to 140 participants. Result: QOL was negatively associated with anxiety, depression, and prodromal symptoms of psychosis. Caregiving duration and affiliate stigma were significant predictors of depression, anxiety, and prodromal symptoms. Affiliate stigma and caregiving duration moderated the relationship between prodromal symptoms of psychosis and QOL.