Sandoval LR, et al. – A pilot study was undertaken to investigate the impacts of computer-based neurocognitive training, along with social interaction either with a peer (PSI) or without one (N-PSI). The findings from the present study suggested that PSI could improve cognitive performance, such as processing speed, during computerized cognitive training in schizophrenia. However, additional studies examining the impact of PSI during cognitive remediation are required to further assess this hypothesis.

Methods

• For this study, 16 adult members diagnosed with schizophrenia or schizoaffective disorder taking an interest in an ongoing trial of Cognitive Enhancement Therapy completed several computerized neurocognitive remediation training sessions (the Orientation Remedial Module©, or ORM), either with a peer or without a peer.

Results

• A significant interaction was observed between the impact of PSI and performance on the different cognitive exercises (p < 0.05)
• When patients performed the session with PSI, they exhibited better cognitive performances than with N-PSI in the ORM exercise that provides training in processing speed, alertness, and reaction time (the standard Attention Reaction Conditioner, or ARC) (p < 0.01, corrected)
• The results showed that PSI did not significantly affect other cognitive domains such as target detection and spatial attention.