As scientists are discovering more about what guides human behavior, it is becoming apparent that there is a connection between the mind and the body. A person’s psychological experiences, such as his or her thoughts and emotions, are directly tied to his or her physiological responses. It is thought that our behavior and emotions are orchestrated by a series of chemical and electrical impulses carried out throughout the body. The brain is seen as the master switch that organizes and sends signals to the appropriate areas to illicit the desired response. Many mental disorders are believed to have a biological origin and it is imperative that psychologist have an understanding of these processes to better help the individuals that they work with. Knowledge of the how the brain’s chemistry influences behavior and how different substances can alter this will provide a basis for providing the best level of care. A psychologist can better diagnosis, educate the client about the disorder and treatment options, and recognize potential problems if he or she is aware of the principles of psychopharmacology. Etiology, Clinical Presentation & Progression of Schizophrenia Schizophrenia is a chronic and severe mental illness that affects approximately one percent of the general population of the United States; 2 million Americans meet the diagnostic criteria at any one time (Lee, McGlashan & Woods, 2005). Long (2005) states the disease generally strikes young people for the first time in the late teens or early twenties. Some people do develop schizophrenia later in life but this is not typical. Long adds that it occurs in all races, cultures, social classes and both sexes. However, schizophrenia generally occurs early in males then females. It is a disorder that impacts the individual’s ability to function on multiple levels, including behavioral, emotional and cognitive functioning. The individual is usually thought to have suffered a break from reality. The symptoms of...