Is interoception the 'p factor'? Investigating a common basis for psychiatric disorders

This project examines whether interoception can explain disruption in several domains of functioning. Given the inadequacy of a categorical approach, this will be achieved using a dimensional approach. Studies 1 and 2 will examine whether interoception can explain relationships between self-reported (Study 1) and behaviourally measured (Study 2) symptoms and how these change over time. Drawing on Prof Watling's expertise in evaluating wellbeing materials and implementing evidence-basedN technologies, in Study 3 this project will test a remote digital intervention to improve interoceptive ability and mental health (developed with the industrial partner Biobeats). Study 4 will employ a pre- and post-intervention design to examine the impact of interoceptive training on symptoms and mental health. As such, Studies 3 and 4 will enable us to confirm whether interoception plays a causal role in mental health symptoms and will test the efficacy of a novel digital therapeutic tool.