The CLIPSLAB is designed for the experimental investigation of psychophysiological processes that are important for health and the development or maintenance of chronic physical conditions (e.g., cardiovascular diseases, long-/post-covid, chronic fatigue syndrome, inflammatory bowel diseases, irritable bowel syndrome, obesity) and mental disorders (e.g., eating disorders, anxiety disorders, depression, dissociative disorders, post-traumatic stress disorder or somatic symptom disorder). To address these topics, two research groups (Brain-Body Interaction/Self-Regulation and Health) contribute their inter-disciplinary expertise in the areas of biological, clinical, cognitive, and health psychology.

One key assumption behind the research approach of the CLIPSLAB is that the communication between the brain and peripheral organs in the body is essential for mental and physical health, stress or disease. We investigate both healthy individuals to understand ‘normal’ functioning of the brain and the body, as well as populations with specific pathologies.

Typical research paradigms include perceptual tasks, learning and memory paradigms, behavioral observations and stress tests. Using our bodyscanner/VR equipment, we investigate body image distortion and the integration of internal and external cues in body perception. The aim of this research agenda is to develop strategies for better intervention and prevention by improving our knowledge of bio-behavioural mechanisms and nature-nurture interactions.