The Thought Behind the Words: A View of Schizophrenic Speech and Thinking Disorders

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Abstract
Chaika (1982) has proposed that what is frequently viewed as a schizophrenic thought disorder should more precisely be regarded as a speech disorder. We suggest, however, that one should emphasize constructs concerning disordered schizophrenic thinking. We support this position since the schizophrenic's strange speech can fit into a larger view about his disordered thinking which is grounded in a nomological net involving various different types of strange behavior. Other support comes from (1) the use of tests assessing disordered nonverbal behavior, (2) evidence that schizophrenics intermingle personal concerns (ideas) into their verbalizations, (3) bizarre schizophrenic behavior, and (4) the very large percent of schizophrenics with delusions. There is an intricate link between language--which includes a system of symbols, words, and meanings--and thinking. Thus, we have proposed that the disturbance most frequently observed in schizophrenic verbalizations be viewed as involving conceptual-linguistic activity, and not just a problem of speech activity.

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