• Current Studies
  
  
• Recent Student Masters Theses
  
  
• Recent Student Dissertations

Social Cognition and Functioning (SCAF)
PI:Michael Green, Ph.D.; Site PI: David Penn, Ph.D.
Funded by: NIH

The purpose of this study is to determine the extent to which selected measures from social neuroscience are suitable for use in clinical trials of schizophrenia. We are investigating whether these measures can account for unexplained variance in functioning and and wish to better understand the ways in which social cognition acts as a mediator between basic (non-social) cognition and functioning in schizophrenia.

Click here to learn more about SCAF

******************************************

Computer-Based CBT for Schizophrenia (CBT)
PI: David Penn, Ph.D.; Co-PI: Jennifer Gottlieb, Ph.D.
Funded by: NC Foundation of Hope

This treatment study will evaluate and test the development of the use of a computerized, self-guided CBTp intervention to provide a no-cost treatment program for auditory hallucinations. This study will be an open trial to demonstrate the feasibility, acceptability, safety, and the program’s impact on severity/distress of auditory hallucinations.

Click here to learn more about Internet CBT

******************************************


Social Cognition and Interaction Training (SCIT) for Schizophrenia
PI: David Penn, Ph.D., Co-I: Dennis Combs, Ph.D.
Funded by: NIMH

This treatment development grant is Social Cognition and Interaction Training (SCIT) program, a new intervention developed for individuals with schizophrenia.

Click here to learn more about SCIT

******************************************

Oxytocin Treatment of Social Deficits and Paranoia in Schizophrenia
PI: Cort Pedersen, M.D., David Penn, Ph.D.
Co-I: Robert Hamer, Ph.D., Shane Rau, M.D., Ph.D., Fred Jarskog, M.D.
Funded by: NIMH

The purpose of this study is to compare the effects of 12 weeks of twice daily intranasal administration of Oxytocin versus placebo on difficulties in social relationships, social functioning, and other psychotic symptoms.

******************************************


Recovery After an Initital Schizophrenia Episode (RAISE)
PI: John Kane, M.D., UNC Site PI: David Penn, Ph.D.
Funded by: NIMH

RAISE is a multi-site randomized clinical trial, funded by National Institute of Mental Health, to evaluate the benefits of two years of a comprehensive pharmacological and psychosocial treatment package (the RAISE Enhanced Treatment Program) for individuals  with first episode psychosis compared to usual community mental health treatment (community care).

******************************************

Social Cognition Psychometric Evaluation (SCOPE)
PIs: Philip Harvey, Ph.D., David Penn, Ph.D. and Amy Pinkham, Ph.D.
Funded by: NIMH

            The purpose of this project is to develop and evaluate a psychometrically sound social cognitive battery for use in schizophrenia research.  In the first phase, we will solicit nominations from experts around the country.  From these nominations, a Rand panel will evaluate a subset of these measures (generally those with the most nominations).  Following this, a 2-site psychometric study will be conducted in Miami and Dallas.  After further measure evaluation and modification, a final 3-site validation study will be conducted in Chapel Hill, Miami and Dallas.

Click here to see recent student dissertations

Click here to see recent student masters theses

back to top