Evaluating the process-reactive dimension.

Harrow et al. (1986) report the limitations of the process-reactive dimension as a long-term outcome predictor for young, early phase DSM-III schizophrenics. Two additional studies are now described contrasting the good success of the process-reactive approach as a short-term predictor with DSM-II schizophrenia to its poor success in the same mode with DSM-III schizophrenics. The point is made that the change in diagnostic methods has reduced the heterogeneity of the current population of schizophrenics. The process-reactive conception is suggested as more valuable for a schizophrenia spectrum than for schizophrenia as now defined. Also, a reexamination of current schizophrenic heterogeneity is called for to determine the utility of a process-reactive dimension.