Current Projects
Effort Expenditure for Reward Based Outcomes
The purpose of this research study is to examine whether factors and symptoms of mental health, including schizotypy, predict decision making and reward based effort expenditure. We are also interested in examining if willingness to exert effort on a task predicts different lifestyle and health habits. In addition to this, we are also interested in better understanding the relationship between clinical belief-based symptoms such as delusions and reward sensitivity, and delusions and intolerance of uncertainty as this could provide further information on how such symptoms are developed and maintained.
Lifestyle, Loneliness, and Mental/Physical Health
The purpose of this study is to investigate the role of cannabis use in the relationship between loneliness and paranoia among individuals with schizotypy. By exploring this relationship, the study aims to shed light on the potential connections and interactions between these factors, contributing to a better understanding of the mental health dynamics in this specific population. This study also will examine the relationship between cannabis use and the risk of developing psychosis. The study seeks to provide valuable insights into the pathways and processes by which cannabis use might influence the likelihood of experiencing psychosis, particularly in individuals with schizotypy.
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Normative Data for a New Technology Measure
The purpose of this study is to further develop and gather base rate data for a technology use survey in order to better understand the role technology plays within our society. The findings from this study may contribute to knowledge about general technology use patterns. By developing this measure, we may increase our understanding of broad patterns of technology use and its implications in our daily lives. In the future, this measure could be used to examine the relationships between a number of physical and mental health constructs including interventions involving technology.
Factors Impacting Social Risk
The purpose of this study is to evaluate the relationship between a number of different factors and schizotypy. We are interested in examining the relationship between self-reported physical and mental health and the perception of time in undergraduate students. In addition, we will also examine the roles of lifestyle behaviors (e.g., physical activity level, cigarette smoking, sleeping patterns, sexual behaviors, etc) and physical health. Interpersonal emotions and interaction will be evaluated as well as feelings toward intimate relationships to see how they impact sexual risk behaviors in addition to technology use.