Understanding how delusions change during recovery from psychosis

Cognitive mechanisms of delusion severity throughout recovery from an acute psychotic episode: a computational approach

NIH-funded research Vanderbilt University Medical Center · NIH-11051784

This study is looking at how people recovering from severe mental health episodes change their thinking about their beliefs over time, especially those who have delusions, to help find better ways to support them in their recovery.

Quick facts

Grant typeNIH-funded research
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionVanderbilt University Medical Center NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Nashville, United States)
Project IDNIH-11051784 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research investigates the cognitive processes behind delusions in patients recovering from acute psychotic episodes. It aims to understand how belief updating, a cognitive mechanism, changes over time and how these changes relate to the severity of delusions. Using advanced computational modeling and functional neuroimaging techniques, the study will track patients over six months to identify patterns in their cognitive functioning and brain activity. This could lead to better-targeted treatments for those experiencing delusions.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals who have recently experienced an acute psychotic episode and are currently recovering.

Not a fit: Patients who do not have a history of delusions or acute psychotic episodes may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved treatment strategies for patients suffering from delusions, enhancing their quality of life and recovery outcomes.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promise in understanding cognitive mechanisms related to delusions, but this specific longitudinal approach is relatively novel.

Where this research is happening

Nashville, 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 2026-06-13 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.