Can brain scans unlock the mystery of apathy?

NCT ID NCT04757220

NEW Recruiting now Knowledge-focused Sponsor: University Hospital, Strasbourg, France Source: ClinicalTrials.gov ↗

First seen Aug 19, 2026 · Last updated Aug 19, 2026

Summary

This study investigates why people with schizophrenia or depression often experience apathy—a loss of motivation and goal-directed behavior. Researchers will use cognitive tasks and EEG brain recordings to examine three distinct forms of apathy: executive, emotional, and initiative. By comparing brain activity and performance across these subtypes, they hope to uncover the underlying cognitive and neural mechanisms, which could eventually lead to better treatments.

What this could mean

Our plain-language read of the trial. This is informational only — not medical advice or a prediction.

Active substance: Cognitive tasks with EEG recording
What this could lead to: If successful, this could lead to better understanding of apathy's subtypes, potentially guiding future targeted treatments.
What could go wrong: This is an observational study, so it won't directly test treatments. The findings may not apply to all patients or lead to immediate clinical changes.

This is an AI summary of the original study and may miss details. Read our disclaimer.

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Conditions

The condition(s) this trial relates to.

depressive disorder Lethargy schizophrenia

As listed by the trial registrant

The condition terms exactly as the trial's registrant entered them.

APATHY

Contacts and locations

Locations

Service de Psychiatrie, Hôpital Civil, Hôpitaux Universitaires de Strasbourg
RECRUITING

Strasbourg, 67091, France

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