A 10-year follow-up study of violent victimization in first episode psychosis: Risk and protective factors

• Published in: Psychiatry research 2018-01, Vol.259, p.545-549
• Main Authors: Langeveld, Johannes, Bjørkly, Stål, Evensen, Julie, Joa, Inge, Johannessen, Jan Olav, Larsen, Tor Ketil, Melle, Ingrid, Opjordsmoen, Stein, Røssberg, Jan Ivar, Rund, Bjørn Rishovd, Simonsen, Erik, Vaglum, Per, Velden, Wenche ten, McGlashan, Tom, Friis, Svein
• Format: Article
• Language: English
• Subjects: Adolescent; Adult; Crime Victims - statistics & numerical data; Female; Follow-Up Studies; Humans; Male; Prospective Studies; Protective Factors; Psychotic Disorders; Risk Factors; Violence - statistics & numerical data; Young Adult
• ISSN: 0165-1781; 1872-7123
• DOI: 10.1016/j.psychres.2017.11.013

Violent victimization in persons with severe mental illness has long-term adverse consequences. Little is known about the long-term prevalence of victimization in first episode psychosis, or about factors affecting victimization throughout the course of illness. To assess the prevalence of violent victimization during a 10-year follow-up period in a group of first episode psychosis (FEP) patients, and to identify early predictors and risk factors for victimization. A prospective design was used with comprehensive assessments of violent victimization, treatment variables and functioning at baseline and during 10-year follow-up. A clinical epidemiological sample of FEP patients (n = 298) was studied. FEP patients in our study were at a 3.5 times greater risk of victimization as compared to the normal population. During the 10-year follow-up period, 23% of subjects fell victim to one or more violent assaults. Victimized patients were younger and reported less occupational activity. At 10-year follow-up, victimization was associated with more concomitant drug use, alcohol misuse and violent behavior, but not with a worse clinical or functional outcome. Treatment programs should focus on risk factors for victimization and develop behavioral alternatives to mitigate risk in FEP patients. •298 first episode psychosis (FEP) were followed over a 10-year period.•23% of the patients fell victim to one or more violent assaults during the follow-up.•Young age, violent behavior and alcohol and drugs might increase victimization risk.•Occupational activity might function as a protective factor.•FEP treatment plans should focus on risk and protective factors for victimization.