Overview
Schizophrenia spectrum disorders are associated with impairment in the microstructure of white matter, the key brain tissue responsible for fast communication between different brain regions necessary for any complex task. This white matter impairment is linked to problems with cognition in schizophrenia, especially slower processing speed. This project aims to study the potential for correcting white matter deficits in schizophrenia by examining mechanisms underlying white matter structure changes in response to training on playing a mock musical instrument.
Eligibility
Inclusion Criteria:
- Diagnosis of schizophrenia, schizoaffective disorder, schizophreniform disorder, or psychosis NOS
- age 15-45
- able to provide informed consent
Exclusion Criteria:
- contraindications to MRI (metal implants, claustrophobia)
- medical condition that limits use of hands (ie, arthritis)
- Active or recent (within 6 months) substance use disorder other than nicotine