Creativity in the Schizophrenia Spectrum

by Louis A. Sass (Editor), David Schuldberg (Editor)

The articles in this special issue seek to re-examine the relationship between creativity and the schizophrenia spectrum of disorders in the wake of recent research and theorizing. They revisit both empirical and conceptual findings and issues regarding connections between the schizophrenia spectrum of disorders: schizotypy, psychotic-like traits, and creativity.

Paperback

First published January 1, 2001

Reviews

[Sandeep Gautam · Rating 3 out of 5]

This is a collection of articles that explore the link between creativity and the schizophrenia spectrum (schizophrenia , schizotypal PD, etc ). The quality of articles is varied- some were really eye opening and informing; others were dense and obtuse.
These articles seem to be written as a reaction to the theoretical and empirical work by Jamison et al linking creativity with the affective disorders (esp bipolar disorder). While not denying the mood/energy advantages of manic states and associated hypomanic states, the authors in various ways suggest a cognitive difference/advantage when it comes to creativity-schizophrenia linkage: a cognitive style marked by over-inclusion and concreteness. More importantly, some of them like Sass relate schizophrenic creativity to postmodernism with underlying features of hyperrefelxivity and alienation common to both.
Overall, some interesting perspectives.