Psychophysical and high-tech approaches in the diagnosis of mental health and psychological disorders

Summary

We focus on the possible role of psychophysical techniques in diagnosis of mental health and Psychological problems. We use advanced Virtual Reality techniques and (neuro)biological markers (such as eye movement, pupil size, heart rate variability, galvanic skin response) to gain insight into how the brain reacts to psychological factors and how to come up with fast and reliable diagnostic tools with an eye for therapeutic outcomes as well.

Supervisor

Professor Frans Verstraten.

Research location

School of Psychology

Program type

Masters/PHD

Synopsis

Psychophysical methods are beautiful ways to reveal how the brain processes sensory information. Traditionally perceptual scientists were less concerned with the applications of their findings. However, in particular during the Covid-19 period but also before, it has become clear that remote access to mental health support is poor. New techniques, in particular in the audio-visual domain, make it easier to communicate but a lot of work remains to be done. We focus on the possible role of psychophysical techniques in diagnosis of mental health and Psychological problems. We use advanced Virtual Reality techniques and (neuro)biological markers (such as eye movement, pupil size, heart rate variability, galvanic skin response) to gain insight into how the brain reacts to psychological factors and how to come up with fast and reliable diagnostic tools with an eye for therapeutic outcomes as well.

Additional information

HDR Inherent Requirements

In addition to the academic requirements set out in the Science Postgraduate Handbook, you may be required to satisfy a number of inherent requirements to complete this degree. Example of inherent requirement may include:

• Confidential disclosure and registration of a disability that may hinder your performance in your degree;
• Confidential disclosure of a pre-existing or current medical condition that may hinder your performance in your degree (e.g. heart disease, pace-maker, significant immune suppression, diabetes, vertigo, etc.);
• Ability to perform independently and/or with minimal supervision;
• Ability to undertake certain physical tasks (e.g. heavy lifting);
• Ability to undertake observatory, sensory and communication tasks;
• Ability to spend time at remote sites (e.g. One Tree Island, Narrabri and Camden);
• Ability to work in confined spaces or at heights;
• Ability to operate heavy machinery (e.g. farming equipment);
• Hold or acquire an Australian driver’s licence;
• Hold a current scuba diving licence;
• Hold a current Working with Children Check;
• Meet initial and ongoing immunisation requirements (e.g. Q-Fever, Vaccinia virus, Hepatitis, etc.)

You must consult with your nominated supervisor regarding any identified inherent requirements before completing your application.

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Opportunity ID

The opportunity ID for this research opportunity is 2955

Other opportunities with Professor Frans Verstraten