Program

Mental disorders are commonly characterized by deficits in social motivation, social learning and social interactions. Vice versa, social interactions are part of the psychosocial treatments of psychiatric disorders. Thus, understanding the role of social interactions in clinically relevant conditions is essential for optimizing diagnosis and treatments. Our symposium brings together scientists from four different countries (Germany, Canada, United Kingdom, Switzerland) who present their research on different aspects of social interactions in health and disease, and discuss potential clinical applications. The first two talks focus on the basis of social interactions such as neurochemical processes (Jennifer Cook) as well as learning about the intentions of others and the underlying neural circuitries (Christoph Korn). Next, we will discuss the relationship between individual neural processing of social inferences and social contacts in the real world (Anita Tusche). Following up on this, the junior-scientist presentation focuses on the effects of every-day life social interactions on anxiety and depression (Annalena Jachnik). The final talk of the symposium gives insights into another significant aspect of social interactions, namely non-verbal communication, and its alteration in schizophrenia and depression (Anastasia Pavlidou). Collectively, the presentations of the experts will shed light onto the psychological and neurobiological mechanisms that drive social interactions, highlight their connection to psychopathology, and demonstrate how social interactions can be shaped in clinical applications or promote mental well-being.