Anna Seggewisse
One explanation for the origin of hallucinations is called Cortical Hyperexcitability. This neuronal state of over-excitation has been shown to cause aberrant experiences, ranging from sensory distortions to full-range hallucinations. Extant literature has demonstrated a connection between this neuronal state and different conditions known for their illusionary nature, including epilepsy, migraine or schizophrenia. Schizoptypy, the tendency of developing schizophrenia, incorporates the propensity to perceive aberrant perceptions. This study therefore hypothesises Cortical Hyperexcitability to predict aberrant perceptions in schizotypals. To verify this statement, the Cortical Hyperexcitability index and the Schizotypal Personality Questionnaire were administered on 182 participants in an online study. In the following statistical analysis, single linear regression analyses were performed on every combination between the factors of both measures. In support of the research hypothesis, all nine regression models indicated significant statistical models, as can be seen in the first factor combination with F(1,180) = 25.85, p<.001. It can be concluded from this that Cortical Hyperexcitability significantly predicts the illusionary symptomology in schizotypy. Although the study has been carefully designed, the use of self-assessment methods and the use of socially stigmatised constructs present natural limitations of the study´s result, encouraging further investigation with more direct measures and brain scans.