The overall objective of this project is to identify the neural signature of the impaired ability to relate socially seen in individuals with schizophrenia. A hypothesized path from the neural processes of social cognition, to social cognition assessed behaviorally, to real-life social interactions is examined. Secondary aims are to compare electrophysiological measures of high vs low level social cognition; to develop assessment methods of real-life behavior; and to increase the ecological validity of schizophrenia research. Much research within the field is devoid of personal meaning and interpersonal context. This project's use of personalized assessment allows for an ecologically valid approach to the social deficits of schizophrenia.
Study Type
OBSERVATIONAL
Enrollment
60
This is not an intervention study
Neurophysiology: EEG
EEG mu suppression paradigm using point-light displays
Time frame: 1 day (when assessed)
Neurophysiology: ERP
ERP mentalizing paradigm (perspective taking)
Time frame: 1 day (when assessed)
Cognition
Matrics Consensus Cognitive Battery
Time frame: 1 day (when assessed)
Negative symptoms: clinician-rated
Positive and Negative Syndrome Scale (PANSS) 2. Objectively assessed using computerized software (FaceReader, PRAAT) of video-taped personal narratives produced by the participants
Time frame: 1 day (when assessed)
Negative symptoms: objective 1
FaceReader
Time frame: 1 day (when assessed)
Negative symptoms: objective 2
PRAAT
Time frame: 1 day (when assessed)
Social cognition: complex ToM
Movie for the Assessment of Social Cognition
Time frame: 1 day (when assessed)
Social cognition: low level ToM
The Hinting Task
Time frame: 1 day (when assessed)
Social cognition: facial emotion perception
Pictures of Facial Affect
Time frame: 1 day (when assessed)
Social cognition: body language reading
Emotion in Biological Motion test
Time frame: 1 day (when assessed)
Functioning
Social Functioning Scale (SFS). Seven scales that can be combined into a total score. Mean score in a schizophrenia population = 100, SD = 15. For both the seven scales and the total score.
Time frame: 1 day (when assessed)
Real-world behaviour
Day Reconstruction Method
Time frame: 1 day (when assessed)
Real-world social interactions
Video-ethnography
Time frame: 1 day (when assessed)
This platform is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional.