Integrative Neuro-social cognitive Strategy Programme for Instilling REcovery (INSPIRE): a community-based cognitive...

Area of Science:

• Neuroscience
• Psychiatry
• Rehabilitation Medicine

Background:

• Schizophrenia significantly impacts daily functioning due to neurocognitive deficits.
• Cognitive remediation is effective, but less studied in under-resourced community settings.
• Modern approaches emphasize strategy-learning, social cognition, and negative symptoms.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the effects of the NEAR cognitive remediation program on neurocognition, social cognition, and functional outcomes in community mental health settings.
• To explore mediators of change, including metamotivation, metacognition, and negative symptoms, in cognitive and functional improvements.

Main Methods:

• A randomized controlled trial at three community mental health centers.
• Experimental group receives cognitive remediation (NEAR) plus standard care; control group receives standard care only.
• Intervention includes computer-assisted cognitive exercises, bridging groups, and metamotivation training over 12 weeks, with follow-up assessments.

Main Results:

• Analysis of group by time differences in cognitive performance, negative symptoms, metamotivation, metacognition, functioning, and recovery.
• Exploration of mediators for improvements in cognitive performance and functioning.

Conclusions:

• Findings will elucidate key therapeutic components of strategy-based cognitive remediation.
• This research aims to enhance the implementation of effective cognitive remediation programs in community-based mental health services.