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Byers N, MacIsaac S, MacGregor K, Whitford V. Schizotypal traits and their relationship to reading abilities in healthy adults. Schizophr Res Cogn 2024; 38:100327. [PMID: 39359348 PMCID: PMC11445593 DOI: 10.1016/j.scog.2024.100327] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/17/2023] [Revised: 08/19/2024] [Accepted: 08/19/2024] [Indexed: 10/04/2024]
Abstract
Schizotypal traits (i.e., personality characteristics that range from mild eccentricities to more pronounced schizophrenia-like perceptions, thought patterns, and behaviours) have been associated with a variety of cognitive impairments, including difficulties in language processing. Although these difficulties span several aspects of language (e.g., semantic processing, verbal fluency, visual word recognition), it is unclear whether reading abilities are also affected. Thus, the current study employed the Schizotypal Personality Questionnaire (SPQ) - Brief (Raine and Benishay, 1995) to examine how schizotypal traits impact both word-level and text-level reading skills (using a battery of standardized assessments) in a sample of healthy young adults. We found some evidence that higher schizotypal traits, specifically, increased Disorganized factor scores (reflecting aberrant thinking, communication patterns, and behaviour), were associated with reduced word-level reading abilities. However, this finding did not remain significant after correcting for multiple comparisons. Overall, our study suggests that reading may be another aspect of language affected by schizotypal traits, although additional research (with greater power) is needed to further explore and confirm this finding.
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Affiliation(s)
- Narissa Byers
- Department of Psychology, University of New Brunswick, 38 Dineen Drive, Fredericton, New Brunswick E3B 5A3, Canada
| | - Sarah MacIsaac
- Department of Psychology, University of New Brunswick, 38 Dineen Drive, Fredericton, New Brunswick E3B 5A3, Canada
| | - Kate MacGregor
- Department of Psychology, University of New Brunswick, 38 Dineen Drive, Fredericton, New Brunswick E3B 5A3, Canada
| | - Veronica Whitford
- Department of Psychology, University of New Brunswick, 38 Dineen Drive, Fredericton, New Brunswick E3B 5A3, Canada
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2
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Buck Z, Michalchyshyn E, Nishat A, Lisi M, Huang Y, Liu H, Makarenka A, Plyngam CP, Windle A, Yang Z, Walther DB. Aesthetic processing in neurodiverse populations. Neurosci Biobehav Rev 2024; 166:105878. [PMID: 39260715 DOI: 10.1016/j.neubiorev.2024.105878] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/01/2024] [Revised: 08/07/2024] [Accepted: 09/05/2024] [Indexed: 09/13/2024]
Abstract
Neurodiversity is a perspective on cognition which suggests a non-pathological view of individual cognitive differences. Aesthetics research on neurodivergent brains has generally been limited to neuropsychological cases. Although this research has been integral to establishing the neurological correlates of aesthetic experience, it is crucial to expand this paradigm to more psychologically complex disorders. We offer a review of research on aesthetic preference in neurodivergent brains beyond neuropsychological cases: across populations with psychotic disorder, anhedonia and depression, anxiety disorder, and autism. We identify stable patterns of aesthetic bias in these populations, relate these biases to symptoms at perceptual, emotional, and evaluative levels of cognition, review relevant neurological correlates, and connect this evidence to current neuroaesthetics theory. Critically, we synthesize the reviewed evidence and discuss its relevance for three brain networks regularly implicated in aesthetic processing: the mesocorticolimbic reward circuit, frontolimbic connections, and the default mode network. Finally, we propose that broadening the subject populations for neuroaesthetics research to include neurodiverse populations is instrumental for yielding new insights into aesthetic processing in the brain.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zach Buck
- Department of Psychology, University of Toronto, Toronto, Canada
| | | | - Amna Nishat
- Department of Psychology, University of Toronto, Toronto, Canada
| | - Mikayla Lisi
- Department of Psychology, University of Toronto, Toronto, Canada
| | - Yichen Huang
- Department of Psychology, University of Toronto, Toronto, Canada
| | - Hanyu Liu
- Department of Psychology, University of Toronto, Toronto, Canada
| | - Arina Makarenka
- Department of Psychology, University of Toronto, Toronto, Canada
| | | | - Abigail Windle
- Department of Psychology, University of Toronto, Toronto, Canada
| | - Zhen Yang
- Department of Psychology, University of Toronto, Toronto, Canada
| | - Dirk B Walther
- Department of Psychology, University of Toronto, Toronto, Canada.
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3
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Torrens WA, Pablo JN, Berryhill ME, Haigh SM. Pattern glare sensitivity distinguishes subclinical autism and schizotypy. Cogn Neuropsychiatry 2024; 29:155-172. [PMID: 38551240 PMCID: PMC11296901 DOI: 10.1080/13546805.2024.2335103] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/11/2023] [Accepted: 03/20/2024] [Indexed: 06/27/2024]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Schizophrenia and autism spectrum disorder are distinct neurodevelopmental disorders sharing clinically relevant behaviours. However, early sensory responses show divergent responses. Individuals with schizophrenia typically exhibit cortical hypo-excitability whereas individuals with autism show cortical hyperexcitability. Identifying reliable neurobiological differences between the disorders can diminish misdiagnosis and optimise treatments. METHODS The pattern glare test (PGT) is a simple measure of behavioural hyperexcitability. It measures the number of illusions seen in a static horizontal grating. We collected PGT data from non-clinical adults varying in traits of autism and schizophrenia (schizotypy). 576 undergraduate students completed an online survey consisting of the Schizotypal Personality Questionnaire - Brief Revised, the Autism Spectrum Quotient, and the PGT. RESULTS Subclinical autism and schizotypy traits were highly positively correlated. However, only schizotypy scores were significantly predictive of reporting more pattern glare (PG) illusions. When assessing the subcomponents of the schizotypy and autism scores, positive and disorganised schizotypy traits were predictive of reporting more PG illusions. Whereas, subclinical autism factors were not predictive of PG illusions. CONCLUSIONS High schizotypy performed the PGT in a manner consistent with behavioural hyperexcitability. The PGT distinguished subclinical autistic traits from schizotypy, suggesting potential clinical application.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wendy A Torrens
- Department of Psychology and Institute for Neuroscience, University of Nevada, Reno, USA
| | - Jenna N Pablo
- Department of Psychology and Institute for Neuroscience, University of Nevada, Reno, USA
| | - Marian E Berryhill
- Department of Psychology and Institute for Neuroscience, University of Nevada, Reno, USA
| | - Sarah M Haigh
- Department of Psychology and Institute for Neuroscience, University of Nevada, Reno, USA
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Zouraraki C, Kyriklaki A, Economou E, Giakoumaki SG. The moderating role of early traumatic experiences on the association of schizotypal traits with visual perception. Scand J Psychol 2023; 64:10-20. [PMID: 35833570 DOI: 10.1111/sjop.12859] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/29/2021] [Revised: 05/11/2022] [Accepted: 06/24/2022] [Indexed: 01/11/2023]
Abstract
The findings on the association of schizotypal traits with the perception of visual illusions are scarce and inconsistent and have not taken into consideration potential effects of childhood traumatic experiences, a risk factor for schizophrenia-spectrum conditions. Thus, the present study addressed the question of potential moderating effects of early traumatic experiences on the association between different aspects of schizotypal traits with the perception of the Müller-Lyer and Navon's Hierarchical Letters (NHL) illusions. The study revealed that (a) increased suspiciousness was associated with increased liability to the Müller-Lyer illusion, when the exposure to traumatic events was high, whereas the opposite pattern was true when the exposure to traumatic events was low; (b) negative schizotypy was associated with more accurate global perception, and high disorganized schizotypy was associated with superior accuracy when target letters were present during the NHL illusion, when early traumatic experiences were at lower levels; and (c) high negative, disorganized, and total schizotypy were associated with lower accuracy when target letters were present in the NHL paradigm, when early traumatic experiences were at higher levels. The findings of the study suggest that early traumatic events differentially moderate the relationship between various aspects of schizotypal traits and visual perceptual processing.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chrysoula Zouraraki
- Laboratory of Neuropsychology, Department of Psychology, University of Crete, Rethymno, Crete, Greece.,University of Crete Research Center for the Humanities, The Social and Educational Sciences (UCRC), University of Crete, Rethymno, Crete, Greece
| | - Andriani Kyriklaki
- Department of Social Medicine, School of Medicine, University of Crete, Heraklion, Crete, Greece
| | - Elias Economou
- Laboratory of Experimental Psychology, Department of Psychology, University of Crete, Rethymno, Crete, Greece
| | - Stella G Giakoumaki
- Laboratory of Neuropsychology, Department of Psychology, University of Crete, Rethymno, Crete, Greece.,University of Crete Research Center for the Humanities, The Social and Educational Sciences (UCRC), University of Crete, Rethymno, Crete, Greece
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Abbasi Sarajehlou S, Khajeh S, Masrour C, Azizi M. Comparison of executive functions in individuals with high and low levels of schizotypal trait. Front Psychol 2023; 13:1071777. [PMID: 36814885 PMCID: PMC9940730 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyg.2022.1071777] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/16/2022] [Accepted: 12/29/2022] [Indexed: 01/28/2023] Open
Abstract
The dimensional approach to Schizotypal Personality Disorder (SPD) indicates that SPD includes a constellation of maladaptive personality traits on a continuum with general personality functioning. This study aimed to compare executive functions (EFs) in low and high-level schizotypal individuals. Using a convenient sampling method, we recruited 120 individuals, from which 30 individuals with high schizotypal trait levels (fourth quartile) and 30 participants with lower schizotypal trait levels (first quartile) were selected based on their scores on the schizotypal personality disorder questionnaire. Then, participants from the two groups were administered the Corsi Block-Tapping Test (CBTT), Wisconsin Card Sorting Test (WCST), and Continuance Performance Test (CPT). The results indicated individuals with higher schizotypy trait levels performed significantly poorer in tasks measuring working-visual-spatial memory, cognitive flexibility, sustained attention, and response inhibition. This pattern of results indicated that EF dysfunctions in individuals with higher schizotypy trait levels would cause significant disturbances in multiple areas of life. The practical implications of the findings are further discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Saeid Abbasi Sarajehlou
- Department of Psychology, Faculty of Education and Psychology, University of Tabriz, Tabriz, Iran,*Correspondence: Saeid Abbasi Sarajehlou, ✉
| | - Somayeh Khajeh
- Department of Psychology, Faculty of Education and Psychology, University of Tabriz, Tabriz, Iran
| | - Cheeman Masrour
- Department of Psychology, Science and Research Branch, Islamic Azad University, Tehran, Iran
| | - Morteza Azizi
- Department of Psychology, Sarab Branch, Islamic Azad University, Sarab, Iran
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Török E, Kéri S. The Relationship Among Mentalization, Mindfulness, Working Memory, and Schizotypal Personality Traits in the General Population. Front Psychol 2022; 13:682889. [PMID: 35586232 PMCID: PMC9108540 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyg.2022.682889] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/19/2021] [Accepted: 04/12/2022] [Indexed: 11/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Individuals with high schizotypal traits are less able to observe, describe, and monitor inner feelings, thoughts, and experiences, commonly referred to as mindfulness and mentalization. High schizotypy is also associated with impaired working memory (WM). However, the relationship among mindfulness, mentalization, WM, and schizotypal traits is unknown. Three hundred individuals from the community (mean age: 38.0 years, SD = 10.5; 49.3% women) completed questionnaires examining schizotypal traits, mindfulness, and mentalization and performed working memory tasks. Results revealed that mentalization was a general predictor of schizotypal traits, including unusual experiences, cognitive disorganization, introverted anhedonia, and impulsive nonconformity, when the effect of mindfulness and working memory was controlled. We also found a positive correlation between mindfulness and mentalization. Low mindfulness and mentalization performances were associated with high schizotypy. However, poor working memory was only weakly linked to cognitive disorganization and introverted anhedonia. These findings suggest that weak mentalization is a core feature of schizotypy independent of mindfulness and working memory.
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Affiliation(s)
- Edina Török
- Department of Cognitive Science, Budapest University of Technology and Economics, Budapest, Hungary
| | - Szabolcs Kéri
- Department of Cognitive Science, Budapest University of Technology and Economics, Budapest, Hungary
- Nyírő Gyula National Institute of Psychiatry and Addictions, Budapest, Hungary
- Department of Physiology, University of Szeged, Szeged, Hungary
- *Correspondence: Szabolcs Kéri, ;
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7
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Gong J, He Y, Wang S, Liu J. Emotion Regulation and Depressive Symptoms Mediate the Association Between Schizotypal Personality Traits and Suicidality in Chinese College Students. Arch Suicide Res 2022; 26:614-625. [PMID: 32924826 DOI: 10.1080/13811118.2020.1818655] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/04/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE The psychological mechanisms underlying the relationship between schizotypal personality traits and suicidality are not understood. This study investigated the association of schizotypal personality traits with suicidality and explored the mediating role of cognitive appraisal and depression in the relationship between those two variables in a sample of Chinese college students. METHOD Participants (N = 2457) completed the Schizotypal Personality Questionnaire, the Emotional Regulation Questionnaire, the Zung Self-rating Depression Scale, and three questions related to suicidality. RESULTS The cognitive reappraisal score was lower in the students with suicidality than the students without suicidality, whereas scores for depression and schizotypal personality traits were higher in the students with suicidality than the students without suicidality. Schizotypal personality traits and depression were risk factors for suicidality. Depression mediated the association between schizotypal personality traits and suicidality. Cognitive reappraisal negatively affected symptoms of depression and had a significant mediating effect on the association between schizotypal personality traits and suicidality. CONCLUSIONS Schizotypal personality traits and depression are risk factors for suicidality. Cognitive reappraisal and depression mediate the association between schizotypal personality traits and suicidality.
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Gaillard A, Tan EJ, Carruthers SP, Gurvich C, Hughes ME, Neill E, Sumner PJ, Van Rheenen TE, Rossell SL. No influence of sex on the relationship between schizotypy factors and executive control across the schizophrenia spectrum. J Psychiatr Res 2022; 148:325-331. [PMID: 35193036 DOI: 10.1016/j.jpsychires.2022.02.015] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/03/2021] [Revised: 01/24/2022] [Accepted: 02/14/2022] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
Sex differences in symptoms and executive control across schizophrenia spectrum disorders (SSD) are consistently reported. Similarly, these findings of sex differences are also observed in schizotypy, that is, schizophrenia-like features occurring in healthy individuals in the absence of a clinical diagnosis. This study aimed to examine the relationships between performance on three major domains of executive control: performance monitoring, response inhibition, and cognitive set-shifting, and schizotypy factor scores in both SSD patients and healthy controls (HCs), and whether sex moderated any relationships observed. A total of 111 (67 males and 44 females) patients with SSD and 258 (129 males and 129 females) HCs were included in this study. Schizotypal personality traits (in both SSD and HC) was assessed using the Oxford-Liverpool Inventory of Feelings and Experiences (O-LIFE). Executive control performance was assessed using seven tasks. Stepwise linear regressions revealed that performance on cognitive set-shifting tasks was significantly associated with the introvertive anhedonia, cognitive disorganisation, and unusual experiences subscales of the O-LIFE. When sex was examined as a moderator, it was not a significant moderator of any of the relationships between cognitive set-shifting tasks and schizotypy factors. The results suggest that independent of sex, cognitive set-shifting ability is associated to an increased vulnerability to schizotypal personality traits, although performance monitoring and response inhibition did not.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alexandra Gaillard
- Centre for Mental Health, Swinburne University of Technology, Melbourne, VIC, Australia; Neuroscience of Addiction and Mental Health Program, Healthy Brain and Mind Research Centre, School of Behavioural and Health Sciences, Australian Catholic University, Melbourne, VIC, Australia.
| | - Eric J Tan
- Centre for Mental Health, Swinburne University of Technology, Melbourne, VIC, Australia; Department of Mental Health, St Vincent's Hospital, Melbourne, VIC, Australia
| | - Sean P Carruthers
- Centre for Mental Health, Swinburne University of Technology, Melbourne, VIC, Australia
| | - Caroline Gurvich
- Monash Alfred Psychiatry Research Centre, Central Clinical School, Monash University and the Alfred Hospital, Melbourne, VIC, Australia
| | - Matthew E Hughes
- Centre for Mental Health, Swinburne University of Technology, Melbourne, VIC, Australia
| | - Erica Neill
- Centre for Mental Health, Swinburne University of Technology, Melbourne, VIC, Australia; Monash Alfred Psychiatry Research Centre, Central Clinical School, Monash University and the Alfred Hospital, Melbourne, VIC, Australia; Department of Psychiatry, The University of Melbourne, Melbourne, VIC, Australia
| | - Philip J Sumner
- Centre for Mental Health, Swinburne University of Technology, Melbourne, VIC, Australia
| | - Tamsyn E Van Rheenen
- Centre for Mental Health, Swinburne University of Technology, Melbourne, VIC, Australia; Melbourne Neuropsychiatry Centre, The University of Melbourne, Level 3, Alan Gilbert Building, 161 Barry St, Carlton, Victory, 3053, Australia
| | - Susan L Rossell
- Centre for Mental Health, Swinburne University of Technology, Melbourne, VIC, Australia; Monash Alfred Psychiatry Research Centre, Central Clinical School, Monash University and the Alfred Hospital, Melbourne, VIC, Australia
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Tarasi L, Trajkovic J, Diciotti S, di Pellegrino G, Ferri F, Ursino M, Romei V. Predictive waves in the autism-schizophrenia continuum: A novel biobehavioral model. Neurosci Biobehav Rev 2021; 132:1-22. [PMID: 34774901 DOI: 10.1016/j.neubiorev.2021.11.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/03/2021] [Revised: 10/29/2021] [Accepted: 11/07/2021] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
The brain is a predictive machine. Converging data suggests a diametric predictive strategy from autism spectrum disorders (ASD) to schizophrenic spectrum disorders (SSD). Whereas perceptual inference in ASD is rigidly shaped by incoming sensory information, the SSD population is prone to overestimate the precision of their priors' models. Growing evidence considers brain oscillations pivotal biomarkers to understand how top-down predictions integrate bottom-up input. Starting from the conceptualization of ASD and SSD as oscillopathies, we introduce an integrated perspective that ascribes the maladjustments of the predictive mechanism to dysregulation of neural synchronization. According to this proposal, disturbances in the oscillatory profile do not allow the appropriate trade-off between descending predictive signal, overweighted in SSD, and ascending prediction errors, overweighted in ASD. These opposing imbalances both result in an ill-adapted reaction to external challenges. This approach offers a neuro-computational model capable of linking predictive coding theories with electrophysiological findings, aiming to increase knowledge on the neuronal foundations of the two spectra features and stimulate hypothesis-driven rehabilitation/research perspectives.
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Affiliation(s)
- Luca Tarasi
- Centro Studi e Ricerche in Neuroscienze Cognitive, Dipartimento di Psicologia, Alma Mater Studiorum - Università di Bologna, Campus di Cesena, 47521 Cesena, Italy.
| | - Jelena Trajkovic
- Centro Studi e Ricerche in Neuroscienze Cognitive, Dipartimento di Psicologia, Alma Mater Studiorum - Università di Bologna, Campus di Cesena, 47521 Cesena, Italy
| | - Stefano Diciotti
- Department of Electrical, Electronic, and Information Engineering "Guglielmo Marconi", University of Bologna, Cesena, Italy; Alma Mater Research Institute for Human-Centered Artificial Intelligence, University of Bologna, Bologna, Italy
| | - Giuseppe di Pellegrino
- Centro Studi e Ricerche in Neuroscienze Cognitive, Dipartimento di Psicologia, Alma Mater Studiorum - Università di Bologna, Campus di Cesena, 47521 Cesena, Italy
| | - Francesca Ferri
- Department of Neuroscience, Imaging and Clinical Sciences, "G. d'Annunzio" University of Chieti-Pescara, Chieti, Italy
| | - Mauro Ursino
- Department of Electrical, Electronic, and Information Engineering "Guglielmo Marconi", University of Bologna, Cesena, Italy
| | - Vincenzo Romei
- Centro Studi e Ricerche in Neuroscienze Cognitive, Dipartimento di Psicologia, Alma Mater Studiorum - Università di Bologna, Campus di Cesena, 47521 Cesena, Italy; IRCCS Fondazione Santa Lucia, 00179 Rome, Italy.
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10
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McKay D, Abramowitz JS, Storch EA. Mechanisms of harmful treatments for obsessive–compulsive disorder. CLINICAL PSYCHOLOGY-SCIENCE AND PRACTICE 2021. [DOI: 10.1111/cpsp.12337] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
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Griffiths O, Balzan R. Schizotypy is associated with difficulty maintaining multiple hypotheses. Q J Exp Psychol (Hove) 2021; 74:1153-1163. [PMID: 33283637 DOI: 10.1177/1747021820982256] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
Among neurocognitive accounts of delusions, there is a growing consensus that it is the certainty with which delusions are held, rather than their content that defines some beliefs as delusional. On a continuum model of psychosis, this inappropriate certainty ought to be present (albeit in an attenuated form) in healthy adults who score highly in schizotypy. It was hypothesised that this might be most evident in circumstances where the environment provides incomplete or probabilistic information, which thereby forces the participant to hold two imperfectly supported, concurrent hypotheses in mind. A cued visual search task was used to measure people's capacity to use partially predictive information (i.e., a cue that predicted the target may occur in one of the two locations) to facilitate speeded responding. As hypothesised, people's performance on the trials that required holding two hypotheses in mind concurrently was significantly and specifically associated with the positive components of schizotypy. This finding is consistent with a hyperfocusing of attention in schizophrenia, and may help explain why delusion-prone individuals have a tendency to "jump to conclusions" or be resistant to disconfirming information when faced with multiple, partially supported hypotheses.
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Affiliation(s)
- Oren Griffiths
- Discipline of Psychology, Flinders University, Adelaide, SA, Australia
| | - Ryan Balzan
- Discipline of Psychology, Flinders University, Adelaide, SA, Australia
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12
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Thomas EH, Rossell SL, Tan EJ, Neill E, Van Rheenen TE, Carruthers SP, Sumner PJ, Louise S, Bozaoglu K, Gurvich C. Do schizotypy dimensions reflect the symptoms of schizophrenia? Aust N Z J Psychiatry 2019; 53:236-247. [PMID: 29707955 DOI: 10.1177/0004867418769746] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE The personality characteristics and symptoms observed in schizophrenia are postulated to lie on a continuum, with non-clinical manifestations referred to as schizotypy. High schizotypy behaviours are argued to correspond with the three main clusters of symptoms in schizophrenia: positive, negative and cognitive/disorganised symptoms, yet there is limited empirical evidence to support this. This study aimed to investigate whether schizotypy dimensions significantly correlate with their respective schizophrenia symptomatology in the largest sample to date. METHODS A total of 361 adults (103 patients with schizophrenia/schizoaffective disorder and 258 healthy controls) were assessed for schizotypy using the Oxford-Liverpool Inventory of Feelings and Experiences. The MATRICS Consensus Cognitive Battery supplemented by the Stroop task and Wisconsin Card Sorting Test was administered to all participants to obtain objective measurements of cognition. Schizophrenia symptomatology was assessed using the Positive and Negative Syndrome Scale in patients only. RESULTS The results demonstrated significant correlations between the Oxford-Liverpool Inventory of Feelings and Experiences positive and negative subscales and their respective Positive and Negative Syndrome Scale subscales only, indicating that positive and negative schizotypy dimensions across patients and controls accurately reflect the respective schizophrenia symptomatology observed in patients. Cognitive performance did not correlate with cognitive/disorganised symptom dimensions of the Oxford-Liverpool Inventory of Feelings and Experiences or the Positive and Negative Syndrome Scale, indicating that cognitive impairment is an independent symptom dimension that requires objective cognitive testing. CONCLUSION Collectively, the findings provide empirical evidence for the continuum theory and support the use of schizotypy as a model for investigating schizophrenia.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elizabeth Hx Thomas
- 1 Cognitive Neuropsychiatry Laboratory, Monash Alfred Psychiatry Research Centre (MAPrc), The Alfred Hospital and Central Clinical School, Monash University, Melbourne, VIC, Australia
| | - Susan L Rossell
- 1 Cognitive Neuropsychiatry Laboratory, Monash Alfred Psychiatry Research Centre (MAPrc), The Alfred Hospital and Central Clinical School, Monash University, Melbourne, VIC, Australia.,2 Centre for Mental Health, Faculty of Health, Arts and Design, School of Health Sciences, Swinburne University of Technology, Melbourne, VIC, Australia.,3 St Vincent's Mental Health, St Vincent's Hospital, Melbourne, VIC, Australia
| | - Eric J Tan
- 1 Cognitive Neuropsychiatry Laboratory, Monash Alfred Psychiatry Research Centre (MAPrc), The Alfred Hospital and Central Clinical School, Monash University, Melbourne, VIC, Australia.,2 Centre for Mental Health, Faculty of Health, Arts and Design, School of Health Sciences, Swinburne University of Technology, Melbourne, VIC, Australia.,3 St Vincent's Mental Health, St Vincent's Hospital, Melbourne, VIC, Australia
| | - Erica Neill
- 3 St Vincent's Mental Health, St Vincent's Hospital, Melbourne, VIC, Australia.,4 Melbourne Neuropsychiatry Centre, Department of Psychiatry, The University of Melbourne and Melbourne Health, Melbourne, VIC, Australia
| | - Tamsyn E Van Rheenen
- 1 Cognitive Neuropsychiatry Laboratory, Monash Alfred Psychiatry Research Centre (MAPrc), The Alfred Hospital and Central Clinical School, Monash University, Melbourne, VIC, Australia.,2 Centre for Mental Health, Faculty of Health, Arts and Design, School of Health Sciences, Swinburne University of Technology, Melbourne, VIC, Australia.,4 Melbourne Neuropsychiatry Centre, Department of Psychiatry, The University of Melbourne and Melbourne Health, Melbourne, VIC, Australia
| | - Sean P Carruthers
- 1 Cognitive Neuropsychiatry Laboratory, Monash Alfred Psychiatry Research Centre (MAPrc), The Alfred Hospital and Central Clinical School, Monash University, Melbourne, VIC, Australia.,2 Centre for Mental Health, Faculty of Health, Arts and Design, School of Health Sciences, Swinburne University of Technology, Melbourne, VIC, Australia
| | - Philip J Sumner
- 1 Cognitive Neuropsychiatry Laboratory, Monash Alfred Psychiatry Research Centre (MAPrc), The Alfred Hospital and Central Clinical School, Monash University, Melbourne, VIC, Australia.,2 Centre for Mental Health, Faculty of Health, Arts and Design, School of Health Sciences, Swinburne University of Technology, Melbourne, VIC, Australia
| | - Stephanie Louise
- 1 Cognitive Neuropsychiatry Laboratory, Monash Alfred Psychiatry Research Centre (MAPrc), The Alfred Hospital and Central Clinical School, Monash University, Melbourne, VIC, Australia.,2 Centre for Mental Health, Faculty of Health, Arts and Design, School of Health Sciences, Swinburne University of Technology, Melbourne, VIC, Australia.,5 Centre for Forensic Behavioural Science, Faculty of Health, Arts and Design, Swinburne University of Technology, Melbourne, VIC, Australia
| | - Kiymet Bozaoglu
- 6 Bruce Lefroy Centre for Genetic Health Research, Murdoch Children's Research Institute, Melbourne, VIC, Australia.,7 Department of Paediatrics, The University of Melbourne, Melbourne, VIC, Australia
| | - Caroline Gurvich
- 1 Cognitive Neuropsychiatry Laboratory, Monash Alfred Psychiatry Research Centre (MAPrc), The Alfred Hospital and Central Clinical School, Monash University, Melbourne, VIC, Australia
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13
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Steffens M, Meyhöfer I, Fassbender K, Ettinger U, Kambeitz J. Association of Schizotypy With Dimensions of Cognitive Control: A Meta-Analysis. Schizophr Bull 2018; 44:S512-S524. [PMID: 29554369 PMCID: PMC6188506 DOI: 10.1093/schbul/sby030] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Abstract
Schizotypy is defined as a time-stable multidimensional personality trait consisting of positive, negative, and disorganized facets. Schizotypy is considered as a model system of psychosis, as there is considerable overlap between the 2 constructs. High schizotypy is associated with subtle but fairly widespread cognitive alterations, which include poorer performance in tasks measuring cognitive control. Similar but more pronounced impairments in cognitive control have been described extensively in psychosis. We here sought to provide a quantitative estimation of the effect size of impairments in schizotypy in the updating, shifting, and inhibition dimensions of cognitive control. We included studies of healthy adults from both general population and college samples, which used either categorical or correlative designs. Negative schizotypy was associated with significantly poorer performance on shifting (g = 0.32) and updating (g = 0.11). Positive schizotypy was associated with significantly poorer performance on shifting (g = 0.18). There were no significant associations between schizotypy and inhibition. The divergence in results for positive, negative, and disorganized schizotypy emphasizes the importance of examining relationships between cognition and the facets of schizotypy rather than using the overall score. Our findings also underline the importance of more detailed research to further understand and define this complex personality construct, which will also be of importance when applying schizotypy as a model system for psychosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maria Steffens
- Department of Psychology, University of Bonn, Kaiser-Karl-Ring, Bonn, Germany
| | - Inga Meyhöfer
- Department of Psychology, University of Bonn, Kaiser-Karl-Ring, Bonn, Germany
| | - Kaja Fassbender
- Department of Psychology, University of Bonn, Kaiser-Karl-Ring, Bonn, Germany
| | - Ulrich Ettinger
- Department of Psychology, University of Bonn, Kaiser-Karl-Ring, Bonn, Germany,To whom correspondence should be addressed; tel: +49-228-734208, e-mail:
| | - Joseph Kambeitz
- Department of Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, University of Munich, Munich, Germany
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Kapfhammer HP. [The concept of schizoidia in psychiatry : From schizoidia to schizotypy and cluster A personality disorders]. NEUROPSYCHIATRIE : KLINIK, DIAGNOSTIK, THERAPIE UND REHABILITATION : ORGAN DER GESELLSCHAFT ÖSTERREICHISCHER NERVENÄRZTE UND PSYCHIATER 2017; 31:155-171. [PMID: 28699102 DOI: 10.1007/s40211-017-0237-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/07/2017] [Accepted: 06/26/2017] [Indexed: 10/19/2022]
Abstract
From a perspective of conceptual evolution schizoidia was initially considered to describe features both of the premorbid personality of schizophrenic patients and of the personalities of non-psychotic family members (Bleuler, Kahlbaum, Kraepelin). On a psychopatholocial level a close link to the complex basic symptom of autism was stressed. From the very beginnings of modern psychiatry schizoidia was discussed within a conceptual frame of schizophrenia spectrum disorders (Kretschmer, Hoch, Polatin). Approaches to operationalize these conceptual works laid the basis for the cluster A personalities in DSM-III. Due to the prominent concept of schizotypy (Kety, Rado, Meehl) three split up diagnostic categories of schizotypal, schizoid and paranoid personality disorders resulted. Cluster A personality disorders are frequent in community-based epidemiological studies. Health-care seeking behaviour due to primary personality-related problems, however, seems to be less paramount compared to cluster B and C personality disorders. Many family- and twin-based genetic studies convincingly stress a close link between schizotypal personality disorder and schizophrenia. This link is less pronounced for paranoid personality disorder, and even vanishingly low for schizoid personality disorder. From a perspective of schizophrenia spectrum disorders a vast amount of data from molecular genetic, neurobiological, neuropsychological and psychosocial research has impressingly confirmed this link for schizotypal personality disorder. Major research deficits, however, have to be noticed for paranoid and schizoid personality disorder.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hans-Peter Kapfhammer
- Klinik für Psychiatrie und Psychotherapeutische Medizin, Medizinische Universität Graz, Auenbruggerplatz 31, 8036, Graz, Österreich.
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Kocsis-Bogár K, Kotulla S, Maier S, Voracek M, Hennig-Fast K. Cognitive Correlates of Different Mentalizing Abilities in Individuals with High and Low Trait Schizotypy: Findings from an Extreme-Group Design. Front Psychol 2017. [PMID: 28634459 PMCID: PMC5460341 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyg.2017.00922] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Mentalizing or Theory of Mind (ToM) deficits in schizophrenia have been studied to great extent, but studies involving samples of trait schizotypy yield ambiguous results. Executive functions like cognitive inhibition, cognitive flexibility, and agency are all prerequisites of mentalizing, and it is assumed that the impairment of these functions contributes to ToM deficits in schizophrenia. Whether these impairments influence the ToM performance of people with high trait schizotypy remains unclear. Although impaired self-agency has repeatedly been identified in people with schizotypy, its role in mentalizing is yet to be investigated. The main aim of this study was to explore whether deficits in cognitive and affective ToM can be found in high trait schizotypy, and to identify in what way these deficits are related to the positive and negative dimensions of schizotypy. The secondary aim was to examine whether these deficits correlate with executive functions. Based on the dimensional view of the schizophrenia spectrum, an extreme-group design was applied to non-clinical volunteers demonstrating high (N = 39) and low (N = 47) trait schizotypy. Affective and cognitive ToM were investigated using the Movie for Assessment of Social Cognition, a sensitive and video-based measurement. Cognitive inhibition was assessed using the Stroop Test, and cognitive flexibility was analyzed using the Trail-Making Test. Agency was measured using a computerized self-agency paradigm. Participants in the high-schizotypy group performed significantly worse in the affective ToM task (d = 0.79), and their overall ToM performance was significantly impaired (d = 0.60). No between-group differences were found with regards to cognitive ToM, executive functions, and self-agency. Cognitive flexibility correlated negatively with positive schizotypy, and contributed to a worse overall and affective ToM. Impaired cognitive inhibition contributed to undermentalizing-type errors. It was found that non-clinical participants with high trait (positive) schizotypy - especially those with slight executive-function deficits - may have difficulties in understanding the emotional state of others and consequently in functioning in social situations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Krisztina Kocsis-Bogár
- Department of Applied Psychology: Health, Development, Enhancement and Intervention, Faculty of Psychology, University of ViennaVienna, Austria
| | - Simone Kotulla
- Department of Applied Psychology: Health, Development, Enhancement and Intervention, Faculty of Psychology, University of ViennaVienna, Austria
| | - Susanne Maier
- Department of Applied Psychology: Health, Development, Enhancement and Intervention, Faculty of Psychology, University of ViennaVienna, Austria
| | - Martin Voracek
- Department of Basic Psychological Research and Research Methods, Faculty of Psychology, University of ViennaVienna, Austria
| | - Kristina Hennig-Fast
- Department of Applied Psychology: Health, Development, Enhancement and Intervention, Faculty of Psychology, University of ViennaVienna, Austria.,Department of Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, Evangelisches Krankenhaus BielefeldBielefeld, Germany
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Rominger C, Fink A, Weiss EM, Bosch J, Papousek I. Allusive thinking (remote associations) and auditory top-down inhibition skills differentially predict creativity and positive schizotypy. Cogn Neuropsychiatry 2017; 22:108-121. [PMID: 28081654 DOI: 10.1080/13546805.2016.1278361] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/20/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Positive schizotypy and creativity seem to be linked. However, the question still remains why they are related, and what may make the difference? As creative ideation is hypothesised as a dual process (association and inhibition), the propensity for remote associations might be a shared mechanism. However, positive schizotypy and creative thinking might be differentially linked to inhibition. Therefore, this study investigated a potentially overlapping feature of positive schizotypy and creativity (remote associations) as well as a potential dissociative factor (auditory inhibition). METHODS From a large screening sample, 46 participants covering a broad range of positive schizotypy were selected. Association proneness was assessed via two association tasks, auditory inhibition skill with the forced-left condition of the Dichotic Listening Test, and creative thinking by means of two creative ideation tests. RESULTS Positive schizotypy and creative thinking were positively associated. Both traits were linked to lower rates of common associations. However, creative thinking was associated with higher and positive schizotypy with lower inhibitory control in the auditory domain. CONCLUSIONS While creativity and positive schizotypy shared some variance (related to remote associations), profound inhibition skills may be vital for creative performance and may coincide with lower levels of positive schizotypy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Christian Rominger
- a Department of Psychology, Biological Psychology Unit , University of Graz , Graz , Austria
| | - Andreas Fink
- a Department of Psychology, Biological Psychology Unit , University of Graz , Graz , Austria
| | - Elisabeth M Weiss
- a Department of Psychology, Biological Psychology Unit , University of Graz , Graz , Austria
| | - Jannis Bosch
- b Inclusive Education , University of Potsdam , Potsdam , Germany
| | - Ilona Papousek
- a Department of Psychology, Biological Psychology Unit , University of Graz , Graz , Austria
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Zouraraki C, Tsaousis I, Karamaouna P, Karagiannopoulou L, Roussos P, Bitsios P, Giakoumaki SG. Associations of differential schizotypal dimensions with executive working memory: A moderated-mediation analysis. Compr Psychiatry 2016; 71:39-48. [PMID: 27621208 DOI: 10.1016/j.comppsych.2016.08.010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/01/2016] [Revised: 08/16/2016] [Accepted: 08/17/2016] [Indexed: 10/21/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Increased schizotypal traits are observed in a percentage of the general population and in the schizophrenia-spectrum and have been associated with impairments in working memory. In this study we examined the effects of four schizotypal dimensions [Negative (NegS), Paranoid (ParS), Cognitive-Perceptual (CPS), Disorganized (DiS)] on executive working memory (EWM), as mediated by set-shifting, planning and control inhibition. We also examined whether these associations are moderated by family-history of psychosis. METHODS Our sample consisted of 110 unaffected first-degree relatives of schizophrenia-spectrum patients and 120 control individuals. Schizotypy was assessed with the Schizotypal Personality Questionnaire. Participants were also tested with the Letter-Number Sequencing, Wisconsin Card Sorting, Stroop Color-Word and Stockings of Cambridge tasks. The effects of set-shifting, control inhibition and planning on the relationship between schizotypy and EWM were examined with mediation analyses. Moderated-mediation analyses examined potential moderating effects of group membership (unaffected relative/community participant). RESULTS All mediators were significant in the relationship between NegS and EWM. The effects of ParS were mediated only by set-shifting and planning. Planning and control inhibition were the only significant mediators on the effects of CPS and DiS on EWM, respectively. The moderated-mediation analyses revealed that these findings apply only in the community group. CONCLUSIONS We found that the effects of different schizotypal dimensions on EWM are mediated by other cognitive processes in individuals without personal/family history of psychosis. This is probably due to either more severe impairments in the cognitive processes of the relatives or restrictions in our sample and study-design.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chrysoula Zouraraki
- Department of Psychology, University of Crete, Rethymno, 74100, Crete, Greece
| | - Ioannis Tsaousis
- Department of Psychology, University of Crete, Rethymno, 74100, Crete, Greece
| | - Penny Karamaouna
- Department of Psychology, University of Crete, Rethymno, 74100, Crete, Greece
| | | | - Panos Roussos
- Department of Psychiatry, Department of Genetics and Genomic Sciences, Institute for Genomics and Multiscale Biology, Friedman Brain Institute, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY 10029, USA
| | - Panos Bitsios
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, University of Crete, Heraklion, 71003, Crete, Greece
| | - Stella G Giakoumaki
- Department of Psychology, University of Crete, Rethymno, 74100, Crete, Greece.
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Abu-Akel A, Reniers RLEP, Wood SJ. Visual-spatial processing and working-memory load as a function of negative and positive psychotic-like experiences. Cogn Neuropsychiatry 2016; 21:402-411. [PMID: 27438900 DOI: 10.1080/13546805.2016.1206873] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/21/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Patients with schizophrenia show impairments in working-memory and visual-spatial processing, but little is known about the dynamic interplay between the two. To provide insight into this important question, we examined the effect of positive and negative symptom expressions in healthy adults on perceptual processing while concurrently performing a working-memory task that requires the allocations of various degrees of cognitive resources. METHODS The effect of positive and negative symptom expressions in healthy adults (N = 91) on perceptual processing was examined in a dual-task paradigm of visual-spatial working memory (VSWM) under three conditions of cognitive load: a baseline condition (with no concurrent working-memory demand), a low VSWM load condition, and a high VSWM load condition. RESULTS Participants overall performed more efficiently (i.e., faster) with increasing cognitive load. This facilitation in performance was unrelated to symptom expressions. However, participants with high-negative, low-positive symptom expressions were less accurate in the low VSWM condition compared to the baseline and the high VSWM load conditions. CONCLUSIONS Attenuated, subclinical expressions of psychosis affect cognitive performance that is impaired in schizophrenia. The "resource limitations hypothesis" may explain the performance of the participants with high-negative symptom expressions. The dual-task of visual-spatial processing and working memory may be beneficial to assessing the cognitive phenotype of individuals with high risk for schizophrenia spectrum disorders.
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Affiliation(s)
- A Abu-Akel
- a School of Psychology, University of Birmingham , Birmingham , UK
| | - R L E P Reniers
- a School of Psychology, University of Birmingham , Birmingham , UK
| | - S J Wood
- a School of Psychology, University of Birmingham , Birmingham , UK.,b Department of Psychiatry , Melbourne Neuropsychiatry Centre, University of Melbourne and Melbourne Health , Melbourne , Australia
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Gurvich C, Rossell SL. Editorial: Cognition Across the Psychiatric Disorder Spectrum: From Mental Health to Clinical Diagnosis. Front Psychiatry 2015; 6:110. [PMID: 26300789 PMCID: PMC4523700 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyt.2015.00110] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/16/2015] [Accepted: 07/17/2015] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Caroline Gurvich
- Monash Alfred Psychiatry Research Centre (MAPrc), The Alfred Hospital, Central Clinical School, Monash University , Melbourne, VIC , Australia
| | - Susan L Rossell
- Monash Alfred Psychiatry Research Centre (MAPrc), The Alfred Hospital, Central Clinical School, Monash University , Melbourne, VIC , Australia ; Faculty of Health, Arts and Design, Brain and Psychological Sciences Research Centre, Swinburne University of Technology , Melbourne, VIC , Australia
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