Psychosis Research Study
Researchers at Yale University are conducting a study to investigate how people can learn to control their perceptual experiences, such as hearing voices.
Fast Facts
Diagnosed With a Psychotic Disorder
18-65 Years Old
Compensation Provided
Conducted in New Haven, CT
Study Background
We want to learn more about how the brain might develop control over unwanted experiences, such as hearing voices that others do not hear.
The Control Over Perceptual Experiences (COPE) Project is a space where people with lived experience in hearing, seeing, feeling, tasting, and smelling things that others are not/do not across the world can share their experiences. For many, these experiences are distressing or have been at one point in their life. Understanding the ability to influence one’s perceptual experiences has the potential to make an enormous impact on those who have not yet developed control over their experiences and are distressed by them.
In this study, we’ll be investigating the parts of the brain that may be active when people are hearing voices and exerting control. If you have been diagnosed with a psychotic disorder, you may be eligible to participate. Contribute to cutting-edge research in mental health and neuroscience by helping us advance treatment approaches for those who seek help.
Study Background
We want to learn more about how the brain might develop control over unwanted experiences, such as hearing voices that others do not hear.
The Control Over Perceptual Experiences (COPE) Project is a space where people with lived experience in hearing, seeing, feeling, tasting, and smelling things that others are not/do not across the world can share their experiences. For many, these experiences are distressing or have been at one point in their life. Understanding the ability to influence one’s perceptual experiences has the potential to make an enormous impact on those who have not yet developed control over their experiences and are distressed by them.
In this study, we’ll be investigating the parts of the brain that may be active when people are hearing voices and exerting control. If you have been diagnosed with a psychotic disorder, you may be eligible to participate. Contribute to cutting-edge research in mental health and neuroscience by helping us advance treatment approaches for those who seek help.
Additional Information
We want to learn more about the ability to influence your own perceptual experiences by studying control in the brain. To help us understand how control works and develops, this study will involve a series of non-invasive brain imaging techniques, including functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI) and electroencephalography (EEG), which will help us to investigate the parts of the brain that may be active when people are hearing voices and exerting control. This information will eventually help in designing effective treatment approaches for people who are struggling with experiences of psychosis, like hearing voices.
You may qualify for a study if you meet the following criteria.
Inclusion Criteria:
- 18-65 years old
- Diagnosed with a psychotic disorder (e.g., schizophrenia, schizoaffective disorder, delusional disorder, bipolar disorder with psychotic symptoms)
- No major neurological, medical, or developmental conditions
- No dependence on substances (e.g., alcohol, opioids, cocaine)
- Able to undergo MRI scan (no metal in the body, no claustrophobia)
During the main part of the study, you will be asked to listen to various sounds and voices, and to report on your subjective experience of hearing these sounds. You will also be asked to perform some simple cognitive tasks while listening to the sounds. In addition, there will be numerous surveys and interviews where you can share you experiences, thoughts, and strategies.
Procedures include an initial screening form, phone screening, baseline clinical interview, and an an in-person lab visit with EEG, MRI, behavioral testing, and questionnaires.
As a participant, you can receive up to $300 for your time and effort.
There is no cost for you to participate in our research study.
