The Neural Basis of Social Cognition and Its Relationship to Social Functioning in Young People at Risk for Schizophrenia

Abstract

These three studies seek to contribute to the neurological characterization of the development of schizophrenia as well as begin to branch into understanding how neuroanatomical structure and function may relate to specific deficits in social cognition and social functioning within in this population. Paper #1 investigates the relationship between brain structure in young adults at clinical high risk for schizophrenia and social functioning. Paper #2 expands upon the findings of paper #1 by looking at brain structure, social cognition, and social functioning in children and risk for psychosis. Finally, paper #3 focuses on brain function for theory of mind in typically developing children and its relationship to social cognition and social functioning. Investigating the neural mechanisms underlying social cognitive deficits and social functioning impairment in young adults and children at risk for schizophrenia will contribute to the field’s understanding of the development of this disorder.