A 10-year follow-up study of violent victimization in first episode psychosis: risk and protective factors

Johannes Langeveld, Stål Bjørkly, Julie Evensen, Inge Joa, Jan Olav Johannessen, Tor Ketil Larsen, Ingrid Melle, Stein Opjordsmoen, Jan Ivar Røssberg, Bjørn Rishovd Rund, Erik Simonsen, Per Vaglum, Wenche Ten Velden, Tom McGlashan, Svein Friis

3 Citations (Scopus)

Abstract

Violent victimization in persons with severe mental illness has long-term adverse consequences. Little is known about the long-term prevalence of victimization in first episode psychosis, or about factors affecting victimization throughout the course of illness. To assess the prevalence of violent victimization during a 10-year follow-up period in a group of first episode psychosis (FEP) patients, and to identify early predictors and risk factors for victimization. A prospective design was used with comprehensive assessments of violent victimization, treatment variables and functioning at baseline and during 10-year follow-up. A clinical epidemiological sample of FEP patients (n = 298) was studied. FEP patients in our study were at a 3.5 times greater risk of victimization as compared to the normal population. During the 10-year follow-up period, 23% of subjects fell victim to one or more violent assaults. Victimized patients were younger and reported less occupational activity. At 10-year follow-up, victimization was associated with more concomitant drug use, alcohol misuse and violent behavior, but not with a worse clinical or functional outcome. Treatment programs should focus on risk factors for victimization and develop behavioral alternatives to mitigate risk in FEP patients.

Original languageEnglish
JournalPsychiatry Research
Volume259
Pages (from-to)545-549
Number of pages5
ISSN0165-1781
DOIs
Publication statusPublished - Jan 2018

Keywords

  • Journal Article

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