Schizophrenia Health Center
Table of Contents
The exact cause of schizophrenia isn't known, but research suggests it is at least partly genetic. The National Institute of Mental Health reports that 10 percent of people who have a close relative with schizophrenia also have the disorder. By comparison, the condition affects roughly 1 percent of the general population.
Environment also might play a part in the development of schizophrenia. Research has connected childhood trauma, substance abuse and malnutrition before birth to the disorder.