Schizotypy and sustained attention.
We examined sustained attention in 32 schizotypic and 43 normal control subjects from a large, randomly ascertained nonclinical university population. Schizotypy status was determined with the Perceptual Aberration Scale. Sustained attention was measured with the Continuous Performance Test-Identical Pairs. Schizotypic subjects displayed significantly poorer sustained-attention performance than did control subjects, as measured by d and overall hit rate. Although schizotypic subjects evidenced greater levels of anxiety and depression, sustained-attention performance was not significantly associated with these mental state factors. Our results provide evidence for a subtle sustained-attention deficit among schizotypes and are interpreted in light of previous attention research with actual schizophrenic patients as well as children at risk for schizophrenia. Utility of the psychometric high-risk strategy in psychopathology research is discussed.
Lenzenweger
M F
MF
Department of Human Development, Cornell University, Ithaca, New York 14853-4401.
Cornblatt
B A
BA
Putnick
M
M
D000293:Adolescent; D000328:Adult; D001288:Attention; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D010468:Perceptual Disorders / Q000175:diagnosis; D010555:Personality Inventory; D011594:Psychometrics; D012565:Schizophrenic Psychology; D012569:Schizotypal Personality Disorder / Q000175:diagnosis / Q000523:psychology*