Research on the causes of schizophrenia strongly suggests that:

• A. a combination of genetic, biological, and environmental factors contributes to the development of the disorder
• B. schizophrenia is caused only by a viral infection contracted in adulthood
• C. schizophrenia is solely caused by poor parenting practices
• D. the disorder is entirely the result of traumatic childhood experiences

Answer: (A)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Understand that schizophrenia is a complex mental disorder with multiple contributing factors rather than a single cause.
2. Recognize that research in psychology and psychiatry has identified genetic predispositions as one important factor, meaning that individuals may inherit a vulnerability to schizophrenia.
3. Consider biological factors such as brain chemistry and structure, which can influence the development of schizophrenia alongside genetic risks.
4. Acknowledge environmental influences, including prenatal conditions, stress, and social environment, which interact with genetic and biological factors to affect the likelihood of developing schizophrenia.
5. Conclude that the most supported explanation is that schizophrenia results from a combination of genetic, biological, and environmental factors, rather than any single cause like viral infection, parenting style, or childhood trauma alone.