Exploring social disconnection and loneliness in veterans with schizophrenia using digital tools

A Multimethod Approach of Social Disconnection in Schizophrenia: Leveraging Digital Phenotyping, Social Network Analyses, and Neuroimaging

['FUNDING_OTHER'] · VA GREATER LOS ANGELES HEALTHCARE SYSTEM · NIH-10921837

This study is looking at how feeling lonely and disconnected affects veterans with schizophrenia, using smartphones to gather information about their daily social interactions and emotions, with the hope of finding better ways to help them connect with others.

Quick facts

Phase['FUNDING_OTHER']
Study typeNih_funding
SexAll
SponsorVA GREATER LOS ANGELES HEALTHCARE SYSTEM (nih funded)
Locations1 site (LOS ANGELES, UNITED STATES)
Trial IDNIH-10921837 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this research studies

This research investigates how social disconnection and loneliness affect veterans with schizophrenia by utilizing digital tools like smartphones for real-time data collection. It aims to understand the complexities of social interactions and feelings of isolation in everyday life, moving beyond traditional clinical assessments. By analyzing social connections and emotional states through digital phenotyping and neuroimaging, the study seeks to uncover the underlying mechanisms of social disability, which could lead to more effective treatments.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are veterans diagnosed with schizophrenia who experience social disconnection and loneliness.

Not a fit: Patients without a diagnosis of schizophrenia or those who do not experience significant social disconnection or loneliness may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved interventions that enhance social functioning and reduce feelings of loneliness in veterans with schizophrenia.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promise in using digital phenotyping to assess mental health conditions, indicating that this approach could yield valuable insights.

Where this research is happening

LOS ANGELES, UNITED STATES

Researchers

About this research

  1. This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
  2. Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
  3. For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.

View on NIH RePORTER →

Last reviewed 2026-05-15 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.