Schizotypy: The Way Ahead

Abstract

Background: Empirical evidence suggests that schizotypy is a useful construct for analyzing and understanding psychotic disorders. However, several issues remain to be resolved.

Method: This selective, critical review, addresses some questions and limitations, and discusses future directions of work.

Results: First, we present a conceptual outline and discuss the evidence from translational and interdisciplinary studies on schizotypy. Next, we examine and discuss newer analytical and methodological approaches, including network and machine learning approaches. We also discuss newer psychometric identification approaches, such as those using biobehavioral and ambulatory assessment. Next, we review recent cross-cultural studies in schizotypy research. Finally, we identify new challenges and directions and draw conclusions.

Conclusions: This selective, critical review suggests that new methods can contribute to the construction of a solid scientific model of schizotypy as a risk construct.