Judged by your neighbors: Brain structural normativity profiles for large and heterogeneous samples

The preprint operates within the paradigm of normative modeling in neuroimaging, which seeks to understand brain structure and function relative to established norms.

This preprint presents a refinement (N³) of existing normative modeling techniques, aiming to address limitations in handling heterogeneity within study populations. While it acknowledges the existing paradigm, it introduces modifications to the established methodology, suggesting a potential shift towards a more nuanced understanding of normativity. The core tenets of normative modeling remain, focusing on establishing baselines and identifying deviations, but the introduction of multi-prototype normativity, tailored control groups, and individual normativity profiles could represent a move towards more personalized and context-rich interpretations. Therefore, its classification lies somewhere between ‘Normal Science’, representing work within the existing framework, and ‘Model Drift’, indicating a refinement of existing tools and interpretations without a complete paradigm shift.
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