Psychosis and Social Functioning Research Study
Researchers at the Ohio State University are conducting a study to investigate social behavior, relationships, and brain function in individuals diagnosed with a psychotic disorder.
Fast Facts
Diagnosed with a Psychotic Disorder or Experiencing Delusions, Hallucinations, or Paranoia
Ages 14-30
Compensation Provided
Conducted in Columbus, OH
Study Background
We want to better understand how young individuals with psychotic disorder symptoms process information in social settings.
Psychosis can cause individuals to have hallucinations, strong beliefs about things that are not true, paranoia, and emotional disruption. Because of this, individuals with psychosis may have a more difficult time maintaining social relationships.
Previous research has found that the way the brain responds to these situations may have an effect on the difficulties that individuals with psychosis have in social interactions. The purpose of this study is to better understand social function in the brain and how it may relate to social thinking and behavior.
We hope the findings from this study help improve treatments for those with social difficulties.
Study Background
We want to better understand how young individuals with psychotic disorder symptoms process information in social settings.
Psychosis can cause individuals to have hallucinations, strong beliefs about things that are not true, paranoia, and emotional disruption. Because of this, individuals with psychosis may have a more difficult time maintaining social relationships.
Previous research has found that the way the brain responds to these situations may have an effect on the difficulties that individuals with psychosis have in social interactions. The purpose of this study is to better understand social function in the brain and how it may relate to social thinking and behavior.
We hope the findings from this study help improve treatments for those with social difficulties.
Additional Information
The purpose of this study is to investigate social behaviors, relationships, and brain function in individuals diagnosed with a psychotic disorder.
You (or your child) may qualify for a study if you meet the following criteria.
Inclusion Criteria:
- Ages 14-30
- Diagnosed with a psychotic disorder or experiencing symptoms like hallucinations, delusions, or paranoia
- Experiencing impacts to your social life because of your symptoms
- Able to undergo an MRI scan (no non-removable metal in your body or severe claustrophobia)
- No significant neurological disorders (such as ALS, dementia, etc)
- No diagnosis of Mendelian disorders
- Willing to travel to Ohio State University for 1-2 in-person study visits
This study consists of 3 parts:
- The first part can be completed from home and involves a 2–3-hour remote video call with the study team. This initial assessment helps us figure out if and how you might fit into our study. It begins with an interview during which we will ask questions about your emotional and physical well-being, social functioning, and whether you have used any substances in the last month. If we find you are a good fit for the study, we will have you complete some additional questionnaires on the computer.
- The second part of the study will take place in-person at 1960 Kenny Road on the campus of Ohio State University. This visit involves answering additional questions about your emotional well-being, completing some tasks on the computer, and lasts approximately 2-3 hours.
- If you are interested in and eligible for the optional third part of the study, we will schedule another time for you to complete this visit. The fMRI visit takes place at The Ohio State University’s Center for Cognitive and Behavioral Brain Imaging and lasts 1.5 to 2 hours. For this session, you will have an fMRI scan and will perform a computer task in the scanner.
As a participant, you can receive up to $105 for your participation in the first 2 parts of the study, and an additional $75 if you complete the optional fMRI scan.
There is no cost for you to participate in our research study.
