Could some schizophrenics become controlling before their first episode?

Your question is a little foggy and you may need to clarify what you mean by controlling. If you are asking whether a person's behavior may change before a relapse is obvious then the answer is yes. People that have schizophrenia frequently show signs that they may be heading towards a relapse. Some behaviors are common and some are unique to the individual. Controlling behavior (I guess you mean behavior that demands things of other people) isn't a common sign but it may be unique to the individual.

You also talk about a 'first episode' which has me a little confused. Maybe you are worried that you are mentally ill - or someone close to you is? But then you go on to ask about "the usual symptoms" which makes me wonder whether schizophrenia has already been diagnosed. Feel free to add some more information into the mix. The more information we have the easier it might be to help and point you towards helpful resources.

Hello OrangePuppy1869,

Jerry has given you the best answer right now based on the limited information you've presented.

Your use of the word controlling is interesting because my definition of controlling behavior is that the person tries to control other people and have things his or her way and ordered around his or her demands on that person.

So in that regard I believe controlling behavior could be more of an individual's behavior or personality.  I know many people with schizophrenia and I have not seen or heard that controlling behavior is the norm.  You asked if "some" schizophrenics could become controlling.  That is possible if it is part of their nature.  Controlling behavior itself is not a symptom of the schizophrenia.

Regards,

Christina