Analyzing speech to predict psychosis in at-risk patients

Semantic and Syntactic Computerized Analysis of Free Speech

Observational University Hospital, Brest · NCT03525054

This study is trying to see if analyzing the way people at high risk for schizophrenia speak can help predict if they will develop psychosis.

Quick facts

Study typeObservational
Enrollment150 (estimated)
Ages15 Years to 30 Years
SexAll
SponsorUniversity Hospital, Brest Academic / other
Locations3 sites (Brest and 2 other locations)
Trial IDNCT03525054 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this trial studies

This observational study aims to identify linguistic markers that may predict the transition to schizophrenia in patients at ultra-high risk. By utilizing computerized speech analysis techniques, including Latent Semantic Analysis, the study will analyze speech patterns from audio recordings of initial medical interviews. The goal is to validate a predictive model in the French language that can accurately forecast psychotic transitions based on subtle speech disorganization. The study will involve a longitudinal multicenter cohort approach to gather comprehensive data over time.

Who should consider this trial

Good fit: Ideal candidates are individuals aged 15 to 30 who have exhibited suicidal thoughts or behaviors and are at ultra-high risk for psychosis.

Not a fit: Patients with a history of psychosis or those who cannot safely participate in outpatient treatment may not benefit from this study.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this study could lead to early identification and intervention for individuals at risk of developing schizophrenia.

How similar studies have performed: Previous studies using computerized speech analysis have shown promise in identifying markers for schizophrenia, suggesting this approach may be effective.

Eligibility criteria

Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria:

* Major and/or minor from 15 to 30 years old
* Who alleged a suicidal gesture or idea or behavior that has repercussions in their emotional, social or professional life
* If patients receive neuroleptic treatment that impairs cognitive abilities, a one-week wash-out period will be scheduled prior to assessment.

Exclusion Criteria:

* History of psychosis
* Risk of self-harm or violence not compatible with outpatient treatment
* QI\<70 (WAIS)
* Neurological disorder or major health problem
* Impossibility to interrupt neuroleptic treatment for one week
* Refusal to participate

Where this trial is running

Brest and 2 other locations

Study contacts

How to participate

  1. Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
  2. Visit the official trial page on ClinicalTrials.gov for the most current contact information and recruitment status.
  3. Contact the listed study coordinator or principal investigator to request pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.
Conditions Psychotic DisordersPsychosisSchizophrenia and Related DisordersSchizophrenia ProdromalDiagnosis, PsychiatricUltra High RiskPrediction Of PsychosisMachine Learning
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.