Exploring the role of attachment patterns, mentalization, infant trauma in the prodromal phase of schizophrenia

Aims: The aim of this study was to explore attachment patterns, mentalization capacity and childhood traumatic experiences among HR adolescences. Methods: 40 UHR outpatients were compared with 40 other outpatients who did not meet the high-risk criteria. A multi-method diagnostic assessment was implemented, including the Structured Interview for Prodromal Syndromes (SIPS). Adult Attachment Interview was also administered, and the transcripts were further assessed using both the Reflective Functioning (RF) Scale and the Complex Trauma Questionnaire. Results: Although no differences between groups with respect to childhood traumatic experiences have been found, HR patients showed a higher degree of insecure (χ2=7.91; p=.006) and disorganized (χ2=8.46; p=.004) attachment patterns. Moreover, the RF scores were significantly lower in the UHR sample (t=3.27; p<.001) and significant correlations between RF and SIPS subscales were found. Conclusions: Our results suggest that attachment-informed and mentalization-based psychotherapies may be effective preventive treatments for UHR patients.