Cognition and Social Functioning in Non-Affective Psychosis - v1
Research type
Research Study
Full title
Cognition and Social Functioning in Non-Affective Psychosis
IRAS ID
349312
Contact name
Corinna Haenschel
Contact email
Sponsor organisation
City St George's, University of London
Duration of Study in the UK
2 years, 0 months, 0 days
Research summary
The study aims to investigate how early visual processing (EVP), loneliness, social cognition, and paranoia contribute to psychotic symptoms and functional outcomes in individuals with Schizophrenia Spectrum Disorders (SSDs). It focuses on whether loneliness and paranoia are influenced by sensitivity to perceived social threats, how EVP impairments affect social cognition, and the neural mechanisms driving these processes, using electroencephalography (EEG).
The research is important because people with SSDs frequently experience isolation and struggles in social situations, which can worsen their symptoms and quality of life. However, the reasons behind these difficulties are not well understood. Understanding how the brain processes social and visual information could help develop better treatments to improve social functioning and reduce loneliness in SSDs.
This cross-sectional study will involve 170 participants: 85 with SSDs and 85 healthy controls. Participants will be recruited from local NHS trusts, as well as through City St George's, University of London. Participants will be matched by age and gender across groups. They will take part in either the behavioural component (50 per group) or the EEG component (35 per group).
Participation will require one in-person session lasting approximately two hours, with breaks provided. Those participating in the EEG component will complete an additional task to record brain activity while responding to social and emotional cues.
By identifying how EVP and social cognition contribute to symptoms and challenges in SSDs, this study aims to guide new ways to support individuals with SSDs, improving their social connections and overall well-being.
REC name
North West - Haydock Research Ethics Committee
REC reference
24/NW/0389
Date of REC Opinion
7 Feb 2025
REC opinion
Further Information Favourable Opinion