Guided Visual Imagery for Paranoia

This trial explores how race-related experiences affect feelings of paranoia, particularly among Black Americans. Participants will engage in guided visual imagery tasks, a therapeutic technique, simulating various social situations. These include scenarios with clear or subtle racial bias, neutral situations, and experiences of social exclusion. The goal is to better understand how these experiences impact paranoia, improving measurement and understanding across different groups. Individuals who self-identify as non-Hispanic Black or African American and currently reside in the U.S. might be suitable for this trial. As an unphased trial, this study provides a unique opportunity to contribute to important research aimed at enhancing understanding and support for diverse communities.

The trial information does not specify whether you need to stop taking your current medications.

Studies have shown that guided imagery exercises are generally safe and easy for people to handle. A review of these exercises found them acceptable and causing few side effects in individuals with mental health issues, suggesting these treatments are usually safe for participants.

Research on similar exercises in the Blatant and Subtle Race-Related Adverse Experience Imagery sections shows they do not usually cause severe negative reactions. Although designed to evoke certain emotions, these scenarios have been used safely in controlled settings.

In the Social Exclusion Imagery section, guided imagery has been shown to reduce anxiety and improve emotional well-being. One study found it provided immediate relaxation benefits, indicating this approach is also safe.

Researchers are excited about the Guided Visual Imagery for Paranoia trial because it explores how using guided imagery can impact feelings of paranoia, particularly in the context of race-related experiences and social exclusion. Unlike traditional treatments that might involve medication or talk therapy, this approach uses vivid, audio-guided scenarios to help participants confront and process their fears in a controlled environment. By focusing on both blatant and subtle race-related scenarios, as well as social exclusion without racial content, this method aims to uncover how different types of social threats contribute to paranoia. This could lead to more targeted interventions that address specific triggers, offering a new dimension to mental health care.

Research shows that guided imagery can help manage stress and anxiety. For example, it lowers stress levels and improves focus by promoting brain activity linked to relaxation. Studies also suggest that guided imagery can ease distress in people experiencing delusions. In this trial, participants will engage in various guided imagery tasks. Some will encounter imagery related to blatant or subtle race-related adverse experiences, while others will face social exclusion imagery or neutral control imagery. This method may help people manage paranoia by offering ways to handle stress, including stress from race-related experiences.¹³⁴⁶⁷