KTUC

Desertbrat
That is a very complicated question. I am not an expert, but have asked this question myself, then researched it. So here is my interpretation of what I may have learned:

First, people often claim family members have a psychiatric diagnosis, but know little to nothing about what it is and when they got the Dx and what meds they are on, and how well compensated they are. So first, get the facts. Make sure he knows what the Dx is. He might think schizophrenia means “split personality” or some other misconception. Or he may mean his mother in law is “psycho” because he doesn’t like her.

There are studies of identical twins, one with schizophrenia and one without it, so this alone tells us there may be a genetic predisposition of some kind, but that is a long way from a guarantee one will get it. Maybe there is a separate trigger. There does seem to be a slightly increased tendency in families. There are dozens of theories out there, microbes in the womb, even. There is a new one every month or so. Take your pick.

Should the worst-case scenario possible come true, she may develop symptoms of schizophrenia in early adulthood. If so, intervene early, the meds by then will be spectacular. Today, meds work wonders for most people with schizophrenia. A lot of people stay symptom free while on meds and lead normal lives. I think a successful recovery is help by the earliest intervention.

Meanwhile, in addition to your obvious love, make sure she has a defined structure and routine, and clear rules and boundaries, especially if she has any acting out behaviors, due to her background. Do not let her wrap you around her finger trying to “make up” for her terrible loss. The only way to make up for it is to be the parents she needs.

I am really reaching here, cause I do not know the story, but IF her father is under investigation for the mother’s death, and he did it, his psychology and character is probably worth a look. Does he keep his word? Has he been in trouble for other things, cheating, stealing, fraud? Was he abusive to wife a/o child? Is he self-centered and/or immature? If the answer to any of these is yes, watch out for a personality disorder. In him, not the child, but keep the boundaries with him firm.

Please do not take offense at how much I am guessing, I was caught up in your story, as spare as it was.

Best wishes from a desert rat in AZ