Training to improve social skills in people with psychosis

Understanding Social Situations (USS): Training to improve social function in people with psychosis

NIH-funded research VA Connecticut Healthcare System · NIH-11091406

This study is testing a new training program to help people with schizophrenia and similar conditions improve their social skills, making it easier for them to understand and interact with others in everyday situations.

Quick facts

Grant typeNIH-funded research
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionVA Connecticut Healthcare System NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (West Haven, United States)
Project IDNIH-11091406 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research focuses on enhancing social functioning in individuals with schizophrenia and other psychotic spectrum disorders by developing a specialized training program. The program aims to improve social cognitive skills, which are crucial for interpreting and responding to social situations. By utilizing methods from cognitive remediation, the training seeks to reduce cognitive load and facilitate the learning of complex social skills. Participants will engage in activities designed to enhance their ability to navigate social interactions, ultimately aiming to improve their community integration and reduce disability.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals diagnosed with schizophrenia or other psychotic spectrum disorders who experience difficulties in social interactions.

Not a fit: Patients who do not have psychotic spectrum disorders or those with stable social functioning may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could significantly enhance the social functioning and quality of life for individuals with psychosis.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promise in improving social cognitive skills through targeted interventions, although many studies have faced methodological challenges.

Where this research is happening

West Haven, 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.
Last reviewed 2026-06-14 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.