Schizophrenia Paid Research Study
Researchers at the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill are conducting a study in adults with schizophrenia or schizoaffective disorder to better understand aggression in schizophrenia.
Fast Facts
Have Schizophrenia or Schizoaffective Disorder
18-65
Years Old
Compensation
Provided
Conducted in
Chapel Hill, NC
Study Background
Researchers at the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill are conducting a study in adults with schizophrenia or schizoaffective disorder to understand aggression, how it develops, and whether clozapine can help prevent it.
Schizophrenia and aggression, which can involve irritability, impulsivity, and violent behavior, are related to disruptions in brain circuits that regulate emotion, decision-making, and behavior. We aim to learn more about how clozapine and other FDA-approved antipsychotic medications may help prevent aggression in adults with schizophrenia or schizoaffective disorder, particularly in those who may be at higher risk for violent behavior.
This study also seeks to better understand the underlying brain and behavioral mechanisms that contribute to aggression in schizophrenia, including how these patterns develop over time. By studying these mechanisms, we hope to identify more effective treatments and interventions that can improve safety, emotional regulation, and overall quality of life for people living with schizophrenia.
Ultimately, the findings from this research could help guide clinical decisions, reduce aggressive behaviors, and support long-term mental health outcomes, benefiting both participants and the broader community.
Study Background
Researchers at the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill are conducting a study in adults with schizophrenia or schizoaffective disorder to understand aggression, how it develops, and whether clozapine can help prevent it.
Schizophrenia and aggression, which can involve irritability, impulsivity, and violent behavior, are related to disruptions in brain circuits that regulate emotion, decision-making, and behavior. We aim to learn more about how clozapine and other FDA-approved antipsychotic medications may help prevent aggression in adults with schizophrenia or schizoaffective disorder, particularly in those who may be at higher risk for violent behavior.
This study also seeks to better understand the underlying brain and behavioral mechanisms that contribute to aggression in schizophrenia, including how these patterns develop over time. By studying these mechanisms, we hope to identify more effective treatments and interventions that can improve safety, emotional regulation, and overall quality of life for people living with schizophrenia.
Ultimately, the findings from this research could help guide clinical decisions, reduce aggressive behaviors, and support long-term mental health outcomes, benefiting both participants and the broader community.
Additional Information
In this research study, we are trying to understand how aggression develops in adults with schizophrenia or schizoaffective disorder. We aim to better understand the brain circuits that regulate emotion, impulse control, and behavior, and how these circuits may function differently in people who are at higher risk for aggression.
Aggression in schizophrenia is related to disruptions in emotional regulation, decision-making, and brain reward pathways, as well as experiences, behaviors, and overall mental health, all of which we will measure. We also want to explore whether clozapine or other antipsychotic medications can help reduce aggression and improve emotional control.
To do this, we are using neuroscience-guided approaches, combining clinical assessments, questionnaires, and medical monitoring with interventions that target the brain systems believed to contribute to aggressive behavior. This research may help guide more effective treatments for aggression in schizophrenia and improve participants’ safety, well-being, and quality of life.
You may be eligible for this study if you meet the following criteria.
Inclusion Criteria:
- 18–65 years old
- Diagnosis of schizophrenia or schizoaffective disorder
Exclusion Criteria:
- History of intolerance or allergy to clozapine
- Pregnant or lactating women
- Unstable medical or neurological conditions
The entire study lasts about 30 weeks. Once enrolled, the study involves:
In the clinic:
- Weekly visits (approximately 26 total) where you will complete assessments related to schizophrenia and aggression.
- Most visits are short and include vital signs, questionnaires, and medical monitoring.
- If you are assigned to clozapine, weekly blood draws will also be required.
- Five visits may take longer (about 1–2 hours) and include more detailed assessments.
From home:
- You may be asked to complete questionnaires and surveys about your experiences, mood, and behaviors.
- These surveys help track symptoms and responses to treatment over time.
- The surveys are designed to take only a few minutes to complete and provide valuable information about your progress in the study.
As a participant, you may receive up to $950.
There is no cost for you to participate in our research study.