Healthy Volunteers Research Study

Researchers at the University of Alabama at Birmingham are conducting a study to explore the effects of social intelligence and motivation on the quality of life in individuals with and without HIV.

Fast Facts

Generally healthy (no significant neurological diseases or medical illnesses)

40-70 Years Old

Compensation Provided

Conducted in Birmingham, AL

Study Background

Researchers at the University of Alabama at Birmingham are conducting a study to explore the effects of social intelligence and motivation on the quality of life in individuals with HIV, aiming to better understand the relationship between social cognition, stigma, and well-being.

Social cognition, which includes social intelligence and motivation, plays a key role in the quality of life for individuals with HIV. This study aims to better understand how these factors impact HIV patients, particularly in relation to stigma and treatment outcomes. By examining both behavioral and neural levels, we hope to uncover new insights into improving the lives of those living with HIV and potentially develop more effective interventions. Ultimately, the findings of this study may contribute to better treatment strategies and enhanced well-being for individuals with HIV.

Study Background

Researchers at the University of Alabama at Birmingham are conducting a study to explore the effects of social intelligence and motivation on the quality of life in individuals with HIV, aiming to better understand the relationship between social cognition, stigma, and well-being.

Social cognition, which includes social intelligence and motivation, plays a key role in the quality of life for individuals with HIV. This study aims to better understand how these factors impact HIV patients, particularly in relation to stigma and treatment outcomes. By examining both behavioral and neural levels, we hope to uncover new insights into improving the lives of those living with HIV and potentially develop more effective interventions. Ultimately, the findings of this study may contribute to better treatment strategies and enhanced well-being for individuals with HIV.

Additional Information

This study is being conducted to explore how social intelligence and motivation affect the quality of life in individuals with HIV. While cognitive impairments such as attention and memory loss are common in HIV, less is known about how social cognition influences well-being, particularly in relation to stigma. By investigating these factors at both behavioral and neural levels, the study aims to improve understanding of the relationship between social cognition, stigma, and quality of life, ultimately leading to better treatment strategies and improved outcomes for individuals living with HIV.

You may qualify for a study if you meet the following criteria.

Inclusion Criteria:

  • Ages 40-70
  • Generally healthy (no significant neurological diseases or medical illnesses)
  • Must be English-speaking

 

Exclusion Criteria:

  • No diagnosis of a mood disorder or psychosis

  • No diagnosis of HIV

  • No substance use disorder in past 3 months

  • No family history of a major mood disorder or psychotic disorder in first-degree relatives

  • Not currently pregnant

If you participate in this study, you will undergo 3-4 visits. First, you’ll complete a screening interview to determine eligibility. If eligible, you will participate in a testing visit where you’ll complete assessments measuring social intelligence, motivation, and related factors. Lastly, you’ll undergo an MRI scan while responding to visual stimuli. The study will be conducted fully in person, and you will have breaks as needed throughout the visits.

Participants will be compensated for their time. You will receive $25 per hour each time you complete a visit, with the total compensation reaching up to $312.50 for the entire study.

There is no cost for you to participate in our research study.