I appreciate your response, as I am in need of feedback. However, let me clarify that I do NOT have a "stereotyped image" of what schizophrenia looks like. I don't envision a lifetime of chronicity, but I am realistic given that his age of onset was 19 and he is hospitalized approx once yearly b/c of psychotic episodes. He voluntarily participates in a day treatment program 5 days weekly, case management services, individual therapy, and medication services. He has no history of violence so I certainly don't envision that. I have worked for two years with schizophrenics. I have worked with patients and their families, but never a spouse or significant other. None of my clients have had a partner, hence my need for guidance in this area.