Using multidimensional scaling and cluster analysis for understanding information processing and schizophrenia.

Abstract

This comprehensive review of information processing theory together with multidimensional scaling and cluster analysis methods is used to examine proposed models, developing taxonomies, and treatment for schizophrenia. Studies cited link attention deficit with schizophrenia, suggest that for some tasks, the irregular performance of people with schizophrenia is the major problem, add evidence of treatment effects on sufferers' mental organization, provide a critique of current diagnostic instruments, and highlight the importance of supporting coping skills. The author concludes that multidimensional scaling and cluster analysis are important tools for the development of theory and knowledge and act as a check against theoretical bias.