Psychophysics for Behavior
Trial Summary
What is the purpose of this trial?
The investigators will record behavioral responses from human participants on crowdsourcing platform Prolific to identify the decision strategies humans apply short-term, long-term, and multi timescale (across both timescales) inference tasks. Participants will perform a Jar Switching Task (described in Research Strategy Aim 1- "Jar Switching Task") in which balls are drawn with replacement from one of two known jars. The current jar in use switches based on an underlying change rate across trials. Subjects must perform three task blocks: 1) report the current jar in use (short-term inference), 2) predict the subsequent jar (long-term inference), and 3) both report and predict the jars (multi-timescale inference). The investigators will record these responses, the number (and sequence) of balls drawn, and the response time (time from the end of trial until the response) for each trial. Subjects will perform all blocks (parameters and number of blocks to be determined by inference model development and testing prior to task development) so that we can compare responses at each timescale. Since participants participate voluntarily for small sums of money (around $10/ hour based on duration of task) and the investigators' previous studies have collected over 200 subjects in a matter of days, they will aim to record behavioral data from 1000 subjects. This number allows them to address the broad range of subject variability expected using Bayesian statistical methods such as Bayes factors.
Will I have to stop taking my current medications?
The trial information does not specify whether you need to stop taking your current medications.
What data supports the effectiveness of the treatment Psychophysics for Behavior?
The research highlights the use of measurement feedback systems (MFSs) and systematic client feedback as effective tools in improving treatment outcomes in mental health. These methods help therapists monitor patient progress and adjust treatments accordingly, which can enhance the effectiveness of behavioral interventions like Psychophysics.12345
Is there any safety data available for the treatment Psychophysics for Behavior?
The available research does not provide specific safety data for the treatment Psychophysics for Behavior. However, general safety practices in clinical trials, such as tracking adverse events (unwanted effects from treatment), are discussed, which are important for ensuring participant safety in any trial.678910
How does the treatment in the Psychophysics for Behavior trial differ from other treatments?
This treatment is unique because it uses psychophysics, which is the study of how physical stimuli affect behavior, to assess and potentially treat conditions. Unlike traditional treatments that might focus on medication or direct physical interventions, this approach involves measuring and analyzing sensory perceptions and responses to stimuli, which can provide insights into both sensory and cognitive functions.1112131415
Research Team
Tahra Eissa
Principal Investigator
University of Colorado, Boulder
Eligibility Criteria
This trial is for adults in the US who use Prolific, have a high approval rating (95%), and score at least 80% on a pre-test. Participants should speak fluent English.Inclusion Criteria
Exclusion Criteria
Timeline
Screening
Participants are screened for eligibility to participate in the trial
Task Performance
Participants perform the Jar Switching Task involving short-term, long-term, and multi-timescale inference tasks
Data Analysis
Behavioral data from participants is analyzed using Bayesian statistical methods
Follow-up
Participants are monitored for any additional feedback or data collection post-task
Treatment Details
Interventions
- Psychophysics
Find a Clinic Near You
Who Is Running the Clinical Trial?
University of Colorado, Boulder
Lead Sponsor
University of Pennsylvania
Collaborator
University of Houston
Collaborator