This project seeks to identify causal neural mechanisms underlying unwanted, repetitive behaviors (compulsions). Using non-invasive brain stimulation coupled with practice in a computer task, we will modulate activity in a target brain region in two directions (up or down) and measure effects on compulsive behaviors and related measures. This work could ultimately lead to the ability to treat compulsions more effectively by targeting the regions of the brain that can help or hinder attempts to overcome compulsions.
Study Type
INTERVENTIONAL
Allocation
RANDOMIZED
Purpose
BASIC_SCIENCE
Masking
TRIPLE
Enrollment
78
Computerized "brain training" to provide practice in overriding avoidance habits.
Non-invasive method for temporary, focal stimulation of brain areas.
Western Psychiatric Institute and Clinic
Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, United States
functional Magnetic Resonance Imaging (fMRI)
Brain activation in target region
Time frame: 10-60min
Effort to resist compulsive behaviors in response to laboratory triggers
Custom-made laboratory assessment of ability to override compulsive behaviors in response to idiographic triggers: self-reported effort needed to resist
Time frame: 90min-1 week
Duration of compulsive behaviors in response to laboratory triggers
Custom-made laboratory assessment of ability to override compulsive behaviors in response to idiographic triggers: duration of compulsive behavior performance
Time frame: 90min-1 week
Intensity of urges to perform compulsive behaviors in response to laboratory triggers
Custom-made laboratory assessment of ability to override compulsive behaviors in response to idiographic triggers: self-reported urge intensity
Time frame: 90min-1 week
Two-step task
Neuropsychological test of flexible goal-directed cognition
Time frame: 90min-1 week
Yale-Brown Obsessive Compulsive Scale (Y-BOCS)
Clinician-administered measurement of obsessions and compulsions
Time frame: 1 week
WHO Disability Assessment Scale 2.0
Self-report measure of general functioning and disability
Time frame: 1 week
Obsessive Compulsive Inventory-Revised (OCI-R)
This platform is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional.
Self-report measure of obsessions and compulsions
Time frame: 1 week
Habit override task
Percentage of correct responses to each stimulus (0-100%; higher score=better performance)
Time frame: 1 week