Sheldon decides to make the gang torture him for science on The Big Bang Theory season 8, episode 13, which airs tonight on CBS.

The official synopsis for “The Anxiety Optimization” adds a drop of context to Sheldon’s bizarre decision. “In the hopes of achieving a scientific breakthrough, Sheldon invites his friends to challenge him,” CBS explains. “Also, Wolowitz invents an embarrassing game about Raj.”

Well, that probably isn’t difficult.

Sheldon and Leonard had another painful experience on the last episode of The Big Bang Theory. While Raj and Howard debated theology, Sheldon and Leonard had a nasty fight over their qualities as roommates. After angry words were exchanged, Sheldon and Leonard expressed their appreciation for each other – and Sheldon agreed to let Leonard move gradually across the hall into Penny’s apartment.

The preview for “The Anxiety Optimization” is brief, but does make it clear that Sheldon will be wearing a truly baffling choice of headgear in tonight’s episode.

A sneak peek from The Big Bang Theory season 8, episode 13 introduces Raj and Howard’s plot line, in which Howard tests the guys on whether Raj’s words were directed to his girlfriend or his dog.

We don’t know, Howard. Sure, Raj’s relationship with Cinnamon is weird, but remember your mother? Glass houses and all that.

The still photos from “The Anxiety Optimization” offer no clues on whether or not Howard takes our advice, but are extremely clear on the lasting presence of Sheldon’s electrode nightcap.

Or whatever that thing is.

Where to watch ‘The Big Bang Theory’ season 8, episode 13 online:

Catch The Big Bang Theory season 8, episode 13 on CBS.com. New (and old) episodes are also available for purchase on Amazon and iTunes.

The Big Bang Theory season 8, episode 13, “The Anxiety Optimization,” airs tonight at 8:00 p.m. on CBS.

What are your hypotheses for ‘The Anxiety Optimization’?