This article reviews empirical studies that assess outcome of patients with schizophrenia & evaluate the degree to which reported outcome is affected by research methodology, treatment variables, prognostic factors, epidemiologic factors, & patient resilience. Patients with schizophrenia consistently showed poorer courses & outcomes than patients with other psychotic & non-psychotic psychiatric disorders. The studies reviewed also exposed problems in clinical management & treatment & also help to anticipate the possibility of periods of recovery. (LC) (80 refs)