Methods
The Neuropsychology Research Program investigates neuropsychological functioning in individuals with neuropsychiatric and neurological disorders. Our research takes a neuropsychological approach to understanding conditions such as schizophrenia spectrum disorders, bipolar disorders, and CHR individuals. Neuropsychological assessment procedures include digital phenotyping methods, computer-based tasks, standardized psychometric assessments, and other experimental procedures. Collaborations with investigators using neuroimaging and genetic methodologies create the potential for advanced understanding of basic mechanisms that may translate into novel clinical approaches to treatment.
Graduate students and research assistants who conduct evaluations and research within the NRP are trained in the standardized administration of clinical and research based evaluation procedures by Dr. Allen. They are also trained in structured psychiatric interviewing (SCID, BPRS, BNSS, SANS, SAPS, PANSS, etc.), data management, and statistical analysis. The laboratory is supported by state-of-the-art computing allowing for computer based test development, database management, graphic visualization, and multivariate statistical analyses that are needed for ongoing research projects.
Graduate students and research assistants who conduct evaluations and research within the NRP are trained in the standardized administration of clinical and research based evaluation procedures by Dr. Allen. They are also trained in structured psychiatric interviewing (SCID, BPRS, BNSS, SANS, SAPS, PANSS, etc.), data management, and statistical analysis. The laboratory is supported by state-of-the-art computing allowing for computer based test development, database management, graphic visualization, and multivariate statistical analyses that are needed for ongoing research projects.
Environmental Contributions to Negative Symptoms
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Currently, the main focus of research in the NRP involves identifying mechanisms of negative symptoms in those at risk or diagnosed with psychotic disorders; specifically, schizophrenia-spectrum disorders, bipolar disorders, and clinically high risk individuals.
How does an individual's environment contribute to their phenotypic expression of Serious Mental Illness?
Through the novel concept of the "bioecosystem", the NRP, in conjunction with the Clinical Affective Neuroscience Laboratory at the University of Georgia, Athens, is examining the intersectionality of biological, psychological, and environmental systemic (mesosystem, microsystem, exosystem, and macrosystem) contributions that drive negative symptom progression through methods such as digital phenotyping, facial and vocal analysis, and assessment measures such as the BNSS, PANSS & BSFS. |
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Digital Phenotyping
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Through the use of digital technologies such as smartphones, wearable devices and sensors, digital phenotyping gathers and analyzes data about individuals' behaviors, traits, and health conditions in real-time.
Participants are asked to utilize their smartphone and to wear a wristband through the course of 7 days. Throughout this week-long period, the digital phenotyping technologies analyze changes in measures such as communication patterns, social interactions, sleep quality, accelerometry, and geolocation. Participants respond to self reports throughout the day, asking questions regarding their emotional health, thoughts, experiences, and beliefs. They also complete short videos that are later analyzed for facial and vocal affect, as well as lexical, acoustic, and semantic analysis. These technologies can assist with the creation of early detection and prevention, ambulatory assessments, and future just-in-time interventions. |
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