The Integrative Neuroscience, Psychopathology, and Personality Research (INSPIRE) Lab

The INSPIRE lab, led by Dr. Takakuni Suzuki, investigates individual differences in cognitive, emotional, and social processes and their underlying mechanisms. We use multiple data collection and analytic methods that integrates neuroscience, psychometric techniques, cognitive science, and affective science. We take a transdiagnostic and dimensional approach to understanding and conceptualizing psychopathology by examining core psychological processes across individuals with and without mental health difficulties. We aim to advance psychological science through rigorous, theory-driven research that bridges laboratory and real-world settings, informing both foundational psychological models and translational applications to improving people's lives.

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Why use multiple methods? Human experiences are complex and cannot be fully captured by a single method. Therefore, we employ multiple ways to measure individual differences and processes, including: (1) Self-report questionnaires to assess subjective experiences (what people tell us), (2) Electroencephalogram (EEG) to measure brain activities (what the brain is doing), (3) Ambulatory assessment to collect data as people go about their lives. We combine these sources with various analytic techniques to gain a nuanced understanding of psychological processes as they unfold across time and context.

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What is transdiagnostic and dimensional approach?  Traditional models of psychopathology rely on categorical diagnoses, using terms that you may have heard, such as schizophrenia and personality disorder. However, research consistently shows that these categorical diagnoses often overlap and do not reflect clear boundaries. A transdiagnostic approach focuses on psychological processes that cut across diagnostic labels, such as cognitive and emotion regulation difficulties. A dimensional perspective views these difficulties as variations along a continuum, rather than as experiences unique to binary categorical disorders. This means that many psychological challenges represent extreme versions of experiences that everyone has to some degree. This framework allows us to bridge basic and clinical science, offering a more integrated and precise understanding of well-being and mental health.

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Why research? Our research aims to deepen theoretical understanding of the neural and psychological mechanisms that shape cognitive and emotional functioning. We also strive to translate these insights into interventions, training programs, and tools that can improve the lives of people.