Predictors of Treatment Outcome for Smokers With and Without Schizophrenia

Predictors of Treatment Outcome for Smokers With and Without Schizophrenia

The primary purpose of this investigation is to determine the predictive value of task persistence as measured by a mirror tracing task. A secondary purpose is to evaluate differences in task persistence in smokers with or without schizophrenia. It is hypothesized that task persistence in smokers in both diagnostic categories (schizophrenia and no schizophrenia) will predict tobacco dependence treatment outcome at one and six months. It is also hypothesized that smokers with schizophrenia will show lower levels of task persistence after controlling for other motor skills than smokers without schizophrenia.

Please see brief summary above.

Inclusion Criteria:

• Current smokers must be over the age of 18,
• Must fit into the diagnostic groups schizophrenia / schizoaffective disorder; or the non-schizophrenia group.
• Must smoke at least 10 cigarettes per day
• Must be capable of giving informed consent as measured by Folstein Mini Mental Status Exam of at least 22.

Exclusion Criteria:

• Those unable to give informed consent.
• Psychotic disorders other than schizophrenia