What does the stress-diathesis theory suggest about schizophrenia?

The stress-diathesis theory posits that schizophrenia arises from the interaction between genetic predisposition and environmental stressors. According to this theory, individuals who have a genetic vulnerability to schizophrenia are more likely to develop the disorder when they face significant environmental stress. This could include factors such as trauma, major life changes, or chronic stress, which can trigger the onset of symptoms in those who are genetically predisposed.

This perspective emphasizes that both genetic and environmental factors play crucial roles in the manifestation of schizophrenia, rather than attributing the disorder to a single cause. Therefore, individuals with no genetic predisposition may not develop schizophrenia even when exposed to significant stress, highlighting the interplay between nature and nurture in the development of the disorder.