Shared and Distinct Time-Space Experiences Along the Psychotic-Affective Continuum

Area of Science:

• Psychiatry
• Phenomenology
• Neuroscience

Background:

• Mental disorders alter lived time and space experiences.
• Schizophrenia spectrum disorders (SSD) feature microstructural disturbances in temporal synthesis and self/world disintegration.
• Mood disorders (MOD) and SSD share macro-level shifts like altered time passage and social spatial difficulties.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the similarities and distinctions in time and space experiences between SSD and MOD.
• To understand how shared experiences arise despite differing core disturbances.
• To identify specific phenomenological markers differentiating these disorders.

Main Methods:

• Phenomenological interviews using the Scale for Time and Space Experience in Psychosis (STEP) were conducted with 26 SSD and 26 MOD patients.
• Group comparisons were made on total STEP scores, time and space subscales, and individual items.
• The SSD group was further analyzed by subdividing into high and low temporospatial disturbance levels.

Main Results:

• SSD is characterized by fragmented temporal experience, diminished synthesis, and altered anisotropy, alongside world, self, and body disintegration.
• Shared experiences between MOD and SSD include altered time velocity, a shift from future to past/present orientation, and spatial issues related to distance and social interaction.
• Analysis revealed commonalities across disorders and disturbances more specific to SSD.

Conclusions:

• The study identified both shared and distinct alterations in time and space perception between SSD and MOD.
• Findings underscore the unique microstructural temporal fragmentation in SSD.
• Phenomenological assessment provides valuable insights into the subjective experience of these disorders.