This document addresses the problems faced by families with a schizophrenic member, based on a survey of the literature from a variety of sources including: (1) the Alden Library of Ohio University; (2) the ERIC database; (3) the American Association of Counseling and Development (AACD); and (4) the National Alliance for the Mentally Ill (NAMI). Chapter 1 introduces the topic, states the problem under study, and describes the need and purpose for the study. Included in this chapter are definitions of terms, questions for research, and statement of limitations. Chapter 2 comprises a review of the literature on schizophrenia and the family. Chapter 3 discusses and analyzes the literature reviewed, first focusing on research into the biological and environmental causes of schizophrenia, and next discussing obstacles encountered by families with schizophrenic members, coping strategies for such families, treatment options for families, and counselor variables that influence treatment. Chapter 4 summarizes the findings and answers the specific research questions relating to dysfunctional practices of families with a schizophrenic member. Questions concern such issues as obstacles encountered by families with schizophrenic members, guidelines to foster maximum family growth, programs that develop and nurture optimal growth in families with a schizophrenic member, and counselor variables that address these problems. (TE)