A new study suggests that brain development during childhood may be less adaptable in individuals with schizophrenia, particularly in regions that connect thought and emotion.

The findings, published in the American Journal of Psychiatry, offer a neurobiological explanation for schizophrenia, a disorder characterized by delusions, hallucinations, and an impaired perception of reality.

Researchers from the University of Zurich, Switzerland, found that nearly 80% of people with schizophrenia experience cognitive impairments. The study highlights how reduced brain flexibility during early development may contribute to symptoms such as disorganized thinking and behavior.

The research underscores the importance of early detection and intervention to better manage the cognitive challenges associated with schizophrenia.