Roos, J.L. (Johannes Louw)Kotze, Carla2022-11-292022-11-292022-04-29Roos, J.L. & Kotzé, C. Early deviant behaviour as a dimension trait and endophenotype in schizophrenia. South African Journal of Psychiatry 2022;28(0), a1747. https://doi.org/10.4102/sajpsychiatry.v28i0.1747.2078-6786 (online)1608-9685 (print)10.4102/ sajpsychiatry.v28i0.1747https://repository.up.ac.za/handle/2263/88514BACKGROUND: In psychiatry, there is still a lack of objective biological diagnostic measurements. It is important to investigate measurements or symptom dimensions that can inform diagnostic assessments and allow for a more personalised approach to patients. AIM: To discuss how early deviant behaviour (EDB) may be seen as a possible continuous symptom dimension trait and endophenotype in schizophrenia. METHODS: Conducting a commentary review by highlighting some important findings from available literature. RESULTS: Findings regarding EDB in schizophrenia in a South African genetic sample point towards EDB as a progressive subtype of schizophrenia, with very early onset of illness (even prior to the psychotic symptomatology) and a genetic form of illness. CONCLUSION: Valuable information can be gained by enquiring into EDB and viewing it as a continuous symptom dimension trait and endophenotype during the psychiatric diagnostic interview.en© 2022. The Authors. Licensee: AOSIS. This work is licensed under the Creative Commons Attribution License.Early onsetDeviant behaviourSchizophreniaEndophenotypeContinuous symptom dimensionEarly deviant behaviour (EDB)Article