Research Study for Teens at
Kennedy Krieger Institute
Researchers at Kennedy Krieger Institute are conducting a research study with teens to better understand how uncertainty impacts the development of anxiety, depression, and daily routines. Participants complete one 4-hour research appointment and two weeks of daily surveys through our survey app. Participants can earn up to $150 in gift cards. Parents can earn up to $50 in gift cards.
Fast Facts
13-17
Years Old
Smartphone Required
Compensation
Provided
Conducted in
Baltimore, MD
Study Background
Researchers at the Kennedy Krieger Institute are conducting a research study for teens ages 13–17 to better understand how uncertainty affects emotional well-being and the development of anxiety and mood disorders. The study is led by Dr. Roma Vasa, Principal Investigator (JHMI IRB00521697).
Intolerance of uncertainty (IU) is a concept that describes difficulty coping with unknown or unpredictable situations. This concept is an important factor that contributes to difficulties with emotional regulation and may be related to how the brain processes unpredictability and stress.
This study aims to learn how to measure IU in teens such that we can understand daily changes, how it contributes to other mood changes, and explore early indicators that might help prevent chronic anxiety.
Eventually, the findings of this study will be used to develop real-time, personalized interventions for anxiety and improving the daily well-being of teens.
Study Background
Researchers at the Kennedy Krieger Institute are conducting a study with teens, ages 13–17, to understand the impact uncertainty has on the development of anxiety and mood disorders, and how to measure these symptom relationships in real life.
Intolerance of uncertainty (IU) is a concept that describes difficulty coping with unknown or unpredictable situations. This concept is an important factor that contributes to difficulties with emotional regulation and may be related to how the brain processes unpredictability and stress.
This study aims to learn how to measure IU in teens such that we can understand daily changes, how it contributes to other mood changes, and explore early indicators that might help prevent chronic anxiety.
Eventually, the findings of this study will be used to develop real-time, personalized interventions for anxiety and improving the daily well-being of teens.
Additional Information
In this research study, we are trying to understand the way anxiety and intolerance of uncertainty (IU) develop in teens. We aim to better understand how daily experiences and emotional responses are related to anxiety and IU in adolescents. IU is related to how the brain responds to uncertainty, stress, and daily challenges, and we will measure these using real-time assessments through a smartphone app. We also want to see whether we can better characterize anxiety and IU by using ecological momentary assessment (EMA) to capture emotions and behaviors as they occur. To do that, we are using neuroscience-informed methods, gathering repeated data in daily life to better understand how anxiety and IU operate in the real world.
You may be eligible for this study if you meet the following criteria.
Inclusion Criteria:
- Teens ages 13–17
- Healthy individuals
- Able to independently read at a middle school level or higher
- Have access to a smartphone for daily surveys
- Able to attend an in-person study visit at Kennedy Krieger Institute
Exclusion Criteria:
- History of neurological difficulties (e.g., seizures)
- Diagnosis of autism spectrum disorder or ADHD
The entire study lasts approximately 2–3 weeks. Once enrolled, the study involves:
In person:
One 4-hour visit at Kennedy Krieger Institute, during which teens will complete study activities and assessments. Parents or guardians will complete a 2-hour phone interview to provide developmental information.
From home:
Teens will complete daily surveys using a smartphone app over 14 consecutive days. Surveys will be completed multiple times per day and are designed to take only a few minutes each. A 30-minute virtual visit will also be completed during the study period.
As a participant, your family may receive up to $150.
There is no cost for you to participate in our research study.