PTSD Research Study
Researchers at the University of Rochester School of Medicine and Dentistry are conducting a study on how the brain responds to threat and reward, to better understand PTSD and improve future therapies.
Fast Facts
Experienced a Traumatic Event
Have not used psychiatric medications
Compensation
Provided Up To $150
Conducted Near Rochester, NY
Study Background
This research explores how people with PTSD learn from threatening and rewarding experiences and how these processes appear in the brain.
Depression and a symptom called anhedonia, which involves difficulty with motivation, energy, and anticipation of pleasant events, are related to disruptions in positive emotions and could be based on alterations in the brain’s dopamine system and reward circuitry. We aim to learn more about alternative treatments for people whose depression does not improve with traditional treatments. We also want to understand depression early in life so that we can find ways to help young people develop along healthy pathways and avoid chronic illness.
Eventually, the findings of this study might be useful for treating depression and improving people’s quality of life.
Study Background
This research explores how people with PTSD learn from threatening and rewarding experiences and how these processes appear in the brain.
The Neuroscience Department at the University of Rochester is seeking individuals who have experienced a traumatic or intensely stressful event and believe they continue to feel its effects. Traumatic events may include physical assault, sexual violation, serious accidents, combat exposure, or natural disasters. Participation in this study helps researchers examine how the brain processes different types of information and how those patterns may differ for individuals with suspected or confirmed PTSD.
Understanding the neural and behavioral markers of learning difficulties in PTSD may help identify early risk factors and inform the development of new, more effective therapies, including immersive virtual reality based approaches. Although this study is not a treatment study, participants contribute valuable information that could support future clinical advances for PTSD and related conditions.
Additional Information
This study aims to identify brain-based and behavioral markers of how people with PTSD learn from threatening or rewarding experiences. These insights may lead to earlier detection and improved therapies for PTSD.
You may be eligible for this study if you meet the following criteria.
Inclusion Criteria:
- Experienced a traumatic event (e.g., physical assault, sexual violation, serious accidents, combat, natural disasters, etc)
- Have not used psychiatric medications (i.e., antidepressants) within the past 6 weeks
- Right-handed
- Able to undergo an MRI (no nonremovable metal on or in your body, no severe claustrophobia)
- Suspected or confirmed diagnosis of PTSD
- Not currently pregnant or planning to become pregnant soon
- Do not have ADHD
- Ages 18-60
Participation includes:
Phone Screening (1 hour): General questions about medical, psychiatric, and trauma history.
In-Person Evaluation Visit (3 hours): A detailed psychological assessment to determine eligibility.
MRI Study Visit (4 hours, separate day): Completing questionnaires, participating in eye-tracking activities, and playing a video game during an fMRI scan.
Participants may skip any questions they do not wish to answer. Some questions may feel uncomfortable, but no other risks are expected.
There is no payment for the phone or in-person screening. Eligible participants who complete the MRI study visit may receive up to $150 (cash or check). Free parking is available, but transportation is not provided. Participants also receive a free clinical evaluation and a picture of their brain if they are interested.
There is no cost for you to participate in our research study.