For several decades there has been an increasing move towards viewing the psychotic illnesses from a dimensional perspective, seeing them as continuous with healthy functioning. The idea, concentrating mostly on schizophrenia, has generated considerable theoretical debate as well as empirical research, conducted under the rubric of 'schizotypy'. This book offers a timely discussion of the most significant themes and developments in this research area.Divided into four key sections which represent current concerns in schizotypy research - Measurement, Brain and Biology; Development and Environment; Consequences and Outcomes; and Future Directions - chapters reflect a broad range of approaches and discuss varied theoretical perspectives on schizotypy. Topics include:cognitive and perceptual biases psychometric assessments creativity and schizotypygenetic associations.developmental perspectives Schizotypy: New dimensions will appeal to academics, researchers and postgraduate students in the area of psychotic illnesses, as well as professionals including psychiatrists and clinical psychologists who are concerned with the basis of serious mental disorder. The book will inform readers who are new to the topic and will update and expand the knowledge base of those more experienced in the field.

Introductory Remarks Gordon Claridge & Oliver Mason Section 1: Measurement, Brain and Biology The Psychometric Assessment of Schizotypy Thomas R. Kwapil & Charlotte A. Chun. The Role of Dopamine in Schizotypy Christine Mohr & Ulrich Ettinger. Genetic Associations: The basis of schizotypy Philip Grant. Hemispheric Asymmetries in Schizotypy Gina M. Grimshaw & Laura Kranz Section 2: Development and Environment Schizotypy: A developmental perspective Martin Debbané. Childhood Trauma and Schizotypy: A systematic review Tjasa Velikonja, Oliver J. Mason & Helen L. Fisher. Mechanisms Mediating the Pathway from Environmental Adversity to Psychosis Proneness Tamara Sheinbaum & Neus Barrantes-Vidal. Schizotypy and Substance Use Emma Barkus. Inducing Psychotic-like Experiences: The role of schizotypy Christina Daniel & Oliver J. Mason Section 3: Consequences and Outcomes Dimensional Approaches to Delusional Beliefs Charlie Heriot-Maitland & Emmanuelle Peters. Schizotypy and Psychopathology Jo Hodgekins. Schizotypy: A creative advantage? Nicola J. Holt Section 4: Old Thoughts: New ideas: Future directions Gordon Claridge