Exploring how mental imagery affects perceptual abnormalities in individuals at risk for psychosis
The Role of Mental Imagery in Perceptual Abnormality Formation in Individuals at Clinical High-Risk for Psychosis
This study is looking at how the way you imagine things in your mind might affect the way you see and experience the world, especially for people who are at risk of developing psychosis, to help us understand their experiences better.
Quick facts
| Grant type | Fellowship grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Northwestern University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Chicago, UNITED STATES) |
| Project ID | NIH-11066140 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research investigates how mental imagery influences the formation of perceptual abnormalities, such as hallucinations, in individuals identified as being at clinical high-risk for psychosis. By examining the relationship between mental imagery and predictive coding, the study aims to understand how prior knowledge and expectations shape perceptual experiences. Participants will be assessed to determine how vivid mental imagery may impact their perceptions and beliefs, potentially leading to a better understanding of their experiences. The study will involve a sample of individuals who experience these perceptual abnormalities and those who do not, providing insights into the underlying mechanisms at play.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals identified as being at clinical high-risk for psychosis who experience perceptual abnormalities.
Not a fit: Patients who do not have any risk factors for psychosis or do not experience perceptual abnormalities may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved interventions for individuals at risk for psychosis by enhancing our understanding of how mental imagery contributes to their perceptual experiences.
How similar studies have performed: While the role of mental imagery in perceptual abnormalities has not been extensively studied, related research in non-psychiatric populations suggests promising avenues for understanding these mechanisms.
Where this research is happening
Chicago, UNITED STATES
- Northwestern University — Chicago, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Pratt, Danielle N — Northwestern University
- Study coordinator: Pratt, Danielle N
About this research
- This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
- Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
- For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.