Random number generation deficit in schizophrenia characterized by oral vs written response modes.

ABSTRACT

To characterize the deficit in random number generation in schizophrenia with respect to control of sensory information processing, the present study employed a random number generation task using 10 digits (0 to 9) and compared two response modes (oral and written) with different amounts of sensory availability about the previous choices of the subject. Analysis indicated that the increased availability of previous information in the written response mode may exacerbate an aspect of the deficit in random number generation in schizophrenia reflecting the disturbance in control of sensory information processing. The comparison of performance in written and oral response modes may be useful in assessing schizophrenic psychopathology.