Does child abuse ever cause the development of schizophrenia in a teenager?

No, but: There are no studies that associate the development of schizophrenia to early child abuse. While the causes of schizophrenia are unclear, some evidence supports a genetic link, a link to chronic and early marijuana use, and effects from a fetus being exposed to certain viruses. However, childhood abuse can lead to symptoms that may look like schizophrenia, including hallucinations.

Complex: Schizophrenia is a complex illness--many kids are abused few later have schizophrenia--is there aa connection--we don't know at this point.