MEG/EEG and MRI Study of Sensory Attention - Ages 18-40 First Episode Psychosis

STUDY BASICS

Are you 18-40 years old? Have you experienced hallucinations (hearing voices), paranoia, or other psychotic symptoms for the first time within the last year? If so, you may be eligible to participate in an MEG/EEG and MRI research study of perception, memory, sensory attention, and brain function. Compensation is provided.

STUDY PURPOSE

The purpose of this study is to better understand the relationship between psychosis and brain activity. Specifically, we would like to learn more about how brain activity relates to psychotic symptoms such as hearing voices, having beliefs which other people do not share, and having difficulties concentrating and thinking. We will be assessing brain response to sounds and the way that paying attention to sounds changes the way they are sensed. We will also assess the brain at rest and during cognitive tasks.

COULD THIS STUDY BE RIGHT FOR YOU?

• Ages 18 and 40 years old
• Experienced hallucinations (hearing voices), paranoia, or other psychotic symptoms for the first time within the last year
• No history of head trauma, seizures or electroconvulsive (“shock”) therapy
• No recent history of alcohol or drug abuse

WHAT PARTICIPANTS CAN EXPECT

This study will use MEG/EEG to measure the natural electrical activity of your brain while MRI will be used to generate a structural image of your brain.