Psychosis Research Study
Researchers at Yale University are conducting a study to investigate how people think and how their memory works.
Fast Facts
Diagnosed with psychosis
Ages 18-60
Compensation Provided
Conducted in New Haven and West Haven, CT
Study Background
Researchers at Yale University are conducting a study to investigate how people think and how their memory works.
Our study aims to use brain scans to find the best features related to thinking problems in people with early-stage mental health issues. Specifically, we’re looking at how people with a certain type of mental health condition called psychosis have trouble with thinking, and how their brain’s hippocampus area is involved.
Figuring out how the brain works when someone has trouble thinking is important because it helps us develop better treatments. By doing this, we hope to find out which people might benefit most from certain medications, no matter what their diagnosis is. This way, we can help more people get the right treatment for them.
Study Background
Researchers at Yale University are conducting a study to investigate how people think and how their memory works.
Our study aims to use brain scans to find the best features related to thinking problems in people with early-stage mental health issues. Specifically, we’re looking at how people with a certain type of mental health condition called psychosis have trouble with thinking, and how their brain’s hippocampus area is involved.
Figuring out how the brain works when someone has trouble thinking is important because it helps us develop better treatments. By doing this, we hope to find out which people might benefit most from certain medications, no matter what their diagnosis is. This way, we can help more people get the right treatment for them.
Additional Information
The purpose of this study is to investigate how people with psychosis think and how their memory works.
Participants may qualify for this study if they meet the following criteria.
Inclusion Criteria:
- Between 18-60 years of age
- Right-handed
- Fluent in English
- Have a diagnosis of schizophrenia, schizoaffective disorder, schizophreniform disorder, Brief Limited Intermittent Psychotic Episode, or bipolar disorder type 1 with psychotic features
Exclusion Criteria:
- Unsafe for MRI
- Colorblindness or uncorrectable visual problems
- Positive urine toxicology for any substance other than marijuana (but THC concentration must still be quite low)
- History of ADHD pre-morbid to the onset of psychosis
Participation in this study involves 3 visits to our research center, as outlined below:
First Visit: During your first visit, you’ll sign a consent form agreeing to take part in the study. Then, you’ll complete various tasks to see if you qualify for the rest of the study. These tasks include talking with researchers about your health, doing computer tests, taking cognitive tests to check your thinking skills, providing a small urine sample, and answering questions about getting an MRI scan safely.
Second Visit: If you qualify after the first visit, your second visit will involve more tests to check your thinking and health. Additionally, you’ll have an MRI scan of your brain taken during this visit.
Third Visit: Lastly, on your third visit, you’ll do more thinking and health tests. This time, you’ll also have another special brain scan called an MEG scan.
Throughout all the visits, the researchers will ensure you’re comfortable and understand what’s happening. They’ll also be available to answer any questions you may have. Your participation in this study will contribute to understanding how the brain works in certain mental health conditions and improving treatments for those who need them.
Compensation is provided up to $515 in cash for your participation.
There is no cost for you to participate in our research study.