Work

Cognition at baseline and relationships 10 years after a first episode of schizophrenia

Year: 2026

Type: article

Abstract: Introduction: Social and nonsocial cognition are important predictors of functioning among people with schizophrenia, both cross-sectionally and longitudinally. It is unknown if this extends to functioning in close and intimate relationships. This study investigated if baseline cognition predicted relationship functioning ten years after a first episode of schizophrenia. Methods: Twenty-two participants with a first episode of schizophrenia underwent baseline assessment with MATRICS Consensus Cognitive Battery, providing scores for social and nonsocial cognition. Ten years later a clinical interview ascertained information about romantic relationship status and number of and frequency of contact with (talking, meeting) close friends. The predictive power of cognition for later relationships was examined with regression analyses. Results: One finding was statistically significant. Nonsocial cognition predicted how often someone talked to close friends ten years later. Conclusions: Baseline cognition, especially social cognition, had little impact on relationships ten years after a first episode of schizophrenia. Possible explanations are discussed.

Source: Schizophrenia Research Cognition

DOI: 10.1016/j.scog.2026.100433

Authors: Anja Vaskinn, Anne-Kari Torgalsbøen

Institutions: Oslo University Hospital, University of Oslo

Language: English

Topic: Schizophrenia research and treatment

Subfield: Psychiatry and Mental health

Field: Medicine

Domain: Health Sciences

SDG: Good health and well-being

Open Access status: gold

Estimated APC paid: $3,130