Novel metaphor processing in high and low schizotypal individuals
Year: 2025
Type: article
Study design: Observational Study
Abstract: This study investigated whether non-clinical high-schizotypal adults exhibit pragmatic language impairments like those observed in schizophrenia patients. 664 participants completed a novel metaphor comprehension task designed to assess three types of interpretations: figurative, literal, and concrete, alongside the Schizotypal Personality Questionnaire (SPQ). Findings reveal that individuals with high SPQ scores show significant difficulties in understanding metaphors, aligning with patterns seen in schizophrenia. Errors predominantly favored literal and concrete interpretations. The study emphasizes the importance of utilizing novel metaphors to measure the ability to process figurative language, as lexicalized metaphors may only reflect associative thinking rather than true comprehension.
Authors: Lara Fernandes, Giulia Olyff, Justine Bruxelmane, Loïc Le Nadan, Sandrine Detandt, Ariane Bazan
Institutions: Université Libre de Bruxelles, InterPsy, Université de Lorraine
Language: English
Subfield: Psychiatry and Mental health
Field: Medicine
Domain: Health Sciences
Open Access status: hybrid
Estimated APC paid: $3,140
OpenAlex ID: W4415027332