Discourse in Psychosis: A Neurobehavioural Study

discourse_logoPeople with schizophrenia often struggle with social interaction. At the center of this struggle is a symptom called disorganized communication. This symptom presents as incoherent speech, inappropriate emotions, repetitive words, and unpredictable behaviours. 

Principal Investigator

Dr. Lena Palaniyappan, MD, PhD, FRCPC

Description of study

This study uses electroencephalogram (EEG) hyperscanning, an advanced noninvasive brain recording method, to study these communication problems. During the study, you will wear a 128-channel EEG cap and complete movement tasks with another person. We will then look at how your brain waves sync up. By comparing healthy individuals and patients, we aim to uncover crucial insights to help better diagnose and treat disorganized communication in schizophrenia.

Financial compensation

Yes

Functioning

  • Location: Douglas Mental Health University Institute
  • Duration: One visit, lasting about 3 hours
  • Activities:
    • Speech tasks (talking and reading)
    • Motor coordination tasks (finger, arm, and whole-body movements with another participant)
  • Method: Noninvasive EEG hyperscanning to record brain activity during tasks

Eligibility criteria

  • Aged 18 to 60
  • Speak English or French
  • No previous diagnosis of schizophrenia or psychosis

Information

Location: Centre of Excellence in Youth Mental Health, Douglas Mental Health University Institute

Contact: For more information and to see if you are eligible, contact PhD candidate Emmanuel Olarewaju BSc, MSc at 204-509-8579 or email: emmanuel.olarewaju@mail.mcgill.ca