Medical References

Medical Terms, Definitions, and Explanations:

Schizophrenia

Schizophrenia is a chronic, disabling brain disorder that causes people to hear voices that other people do not hear. The voice is their head is usually controlling their thoughts and actions. Since other’s do not visualize or hear this person, the person affected with schizophrenia becomes very withdrawn, lonely, and agitated.

Some symptoms of schizophrenia also includes hallucinations, delusions, thought disorders, movement disorders, monotone voice, poor “executive functioning”, and difficulties paying attention.

Even though there is not one distinct gene mutation that causes schizophrenia, scientists believe that the disease derives from a cumulnation of brain genetic mutations. Approximately one percent of the human population have schizophrenia, but those with a family history are ten times more likely to suffer from this disorder.

In the novel, there is evidence that Matthew is addicted to smoking, as he does so before and during his time in the ward. This is quite common for those with schizophrenia because their addiction level to nicotine is three times that of the general population. Also, the risk for suicide is much higher; although this does not serve as justification for Matthew’s suicide attempt, it is a recurring symptom of the disorder.

Down Syndrome

Down Syndrome is a genetic disorder that causes intellectual disabilities, developmental delays, and other health problems. It is a direct result from an abnormal division of chromosome 21 that creates extra genetic material. In general, it is the most prominent genetic disorder and cause of learning disabilities in children.

Children with Down syndrome can experience intellectual and developmental problems from mild to extreme severity. Some of the physical symptoms include: flattened facial features, short neck, flattened facial features, extended tongue, slanted eyes, poor muscle tones, short fingers, small hands and feet, and excessive flexibility.

Matthew's older brother, Simon, is unfortunately diagnosed with Down syndrome. During their childhood, Matthew feels as if he is always second best to his brother; Simon's needs are above his own. In our discussion video, we talk about the medical aspect and it's' impact on the novel.