Surreal illustration of a mind reshaping itself, symbolizing the redefinition of schizophrenia.

Rethinking Schizophrenia: Is It Time for a New Name and Broader Approach?

Kai Mendoza in Health & Wellness November 2025 • 4 min read.

"Experts debate the complexities of schizophrenia diagnosis and whether a name change could reduce stigma and improve understanding."

The term 'schizophrenia' carries significant weight, not just in medical circles but also in public perception. For many years, it has defined a category of mental disorders characterized by heterogeneous clinical syndromes. However, some experts are beginning to question whether the label accurately reflects the reality of these conditions.

In a published letter, Iris E. Sommer and William T. Carpenter discussed the idea of changing the name and broadening the concept of schizophrenia. They highlighted concerns raised by a suggestion from Van Os, who proposed combining different types of psychotic disorders into a single category called 'psychosis susceptibility syndrome.' This proposal has sparked considerable debate among professionals in the field.

The core of the discussion revolves around whether redefining schizophrenia can improve patient care, reduce stigma, and enhance public understanding. The question isn't just about semantics; it's about how we approach and treat some of the most complex mental health conditions.

The Core Argument: Why Change the Name?

Surreal illustration of a mind reshaping itself, symbolizing the redefinition of schizophrenia.

The primary argument for changing the name of schizophrenia centers on the idea that the current term carries significant stigma. The term 'schizophrenia' often evokes misunderstanding and fear, leading to social isolation and discrimination for those diagnosed with the condition. A new name, it is argued, could offer a fresh start, reducing some of the negative associations tied to the old one.

Furthermore, broadening the diagnostic criteria could lead to a more inclusive and accurate understanding of psychotic disorders. Proponents of this view suggest that combining various types of psychotic disorders under a single, broader category might better reflect the spectrum of symptoms and experiences individuals face. This approach could also encourage more holistic and individualized treatment plans.

Reduce Stigma: A new name could help to reduce the negative social perceptions associated with schizophrenia.
Improve Understanding: Broadening diagnostic criteria could lead to a more comprehensive understanding of psychotic disorders.
Encourage Holistic Treatment: A more inclusive approach might foster more individualized and effective treatment plans.

However, there are counterarguments to consider. Sommer and Carpenter pointed out that broadening the diagnostic category could increase the number of cases three to fourfold. This expansion might lead to increased variability among patients, complicating the application of existing knowledge and potentially hindering effective treatment strategies. They emphasize that the current diagnostic categories, while not perfect, are meaningful and guide treatment decisions.

Navigating the Future of Schizophrenia

The debate around renaming and redefining schizophrenia highlights the complexities inherent in mental health diagnosis and treatment. While a name change may offer the potential to reduce stigma and improve public perception, it must be approached with caution and careful consideration. The key lies in balancing the need for a more inclusive and destigmatized approach with the importance of maintaining meaningful diagnostic categories that guide effective treatment.

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Everything You Need To Know

Why is there a discussion about potentially renaming schizophrenia?

The discussion to rename schizophrenia stems from the significant stigma associated with the term. The word 'schizophrenia' often carries negative connotations, leading to misunderstanding, fear, social isolation, and discrimination for those diagnosed. A new name could offer a fresh start, potentially reducing the negative social perceptions associated with the condition and encouraging a more compassionate understanding.

What is the 'psychosis susceptibility syndrome' and how does it relate to the discussion around schizophrenia?

'Psychosis susceptibility syndrome' is a proposed concept by Van Os to combine different types of psychotic disorders into a single category. This suggestion has sparked considerable debate within the field, with some experts, like Iris E. Sommer and William T. Carpenter, discussing the idea of broadening the concept of schizophrenia to be more inclusive of various psychotic experiences.

What are the potential benefits of broadening the diagnostic criteria for schizophrenia?

Broadening the diagnostic criteria for schizophrenia could lead to a more inclusive and accurate understanding of psychotic disorders. Proponents suggest that combining various types of psychotic disorders under a single, broader category might better reflect the spectrum of symptoms and experiences individuals face. This approach could also encourage more holistic and individualized treatment plans tailored to the specific needs of each patient.

What are some concerns about broadening the diagnostic category for schizophrenia?

Iris E. Sommer and William T. Carpenter pointed out that broadening the diagnostic category could substantially increase the number of cases, potentially threefold or fourfold. This expansion might lead to increased variability among patients, complicating the application of existing knowledge and potentially hindering effective treatment strategies. The current diagnostic categories, while not perfect, provide meaningful guidance for treatment decisions, and broadening the criteria could dilute the specificity.

How might renaming schizophrenia and broadening its diagnostic criteria impact patient care and public perception?

Renaming schizophrenia aims to reduce stigma and improve public perception, potentially fostering greater understanding and support for individuals with psychotic disorders. Broadening diagnostic criteria could lead to more inclusive and individualized treatment plans, addressing a wider range of symptoms and experiences. However, it's crucial to balance these benefits with the need to maintain meaningful diagnostic categories that guide effective treatment. Careful consideration is needed to ensure that any changes enhance, rather than hinder, patient care and outcomes.