Understanding distressing psychotic-like experiences in children and adolescents
Cross-sectional and longitudinal predictors of distressing psychotic-like experiences in childhood and adolescence
This study is looking at why some kids and teens have scary experiences that might lead to serious mental health issues, and it’s for families who want to understand what factors could help prevent these problems in young people.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Washington University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Saint Louis, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-10904962 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research investigates why some children and adolescents experience distressing psychotic-like experiences (PLEs) that may lead to psychosis, while others do not. By analyzing data from approximately 11,800 participants aged 9-11 years, the study aims to identify key risk factors and neurobiological correlates associated with sustained distressing PLEs. The research will explore various influences, including family history, cognitive functioning, and environmental factors, to better understand the transition from transient to persistent symptoms. This information is crucial for developing prevention and intervention strategies for at-risk youth.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are children aged 9-11 years who exhibit psychotic-like experiences or are at risk for such experiences.
Not a fit: Patients who are outside the age range of 9-11 years or do not exhibit any psychotic-like experiences may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved identification and intervention strategies for children at risk of developing serious mental health issues.
How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promise in understanding psychotic-like experiences in youth, but this study aims to fill critical gaps with a novel approach focused on sustained distressing symptoms.
Where this research is happening
Saint Louis, United States
- Washington University — Saint Louis, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Karcher, Nicole R. — Washington University
- Study coordinator: Karcher, Nicole R.
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.