Teen Cannabis Use Research Study
Researchers at Indiana University are conducting a study on how the adolescent brain learns from rewards to improve treatment for teens who use cannabis.
Fast Facts
Youth Uses Cannabis Weekly or Has Been Diagnosed With Cannabis Use Disorder in The Past 3 Months
14-17
Years Old
Compensation
Provided Up To $371 plus free cannabis use treatment
Conducted in
Indianapolis, IN
Study Background
This study explores how brain learning systems influence cannabis use and treatment success in teens.
Adolescence is a critical time for brain development, especially in areas involved in decision-making and learning from rewards. For teens who use cannabis, these brain systems may work differently, affecting how they respond to treatment. By better understanding these patterns, researchers hope to improve support for teens working to reduce or stop cannabis use.
This study focuses on a treatment approach called contingency management, which uses rewards to encourage positive behavior change. By combining brain imaging (MRI) with real-world behavior tracking, the research team aims to identify brain-based markers that predict who benefits most from this type of treatment. This could help create more personalized and effective interventions for adolescents in the future.
Study Background
This study explores how brain learning systems influence cannabis use and treatment success in teens.
Adolescence is a critical time for brain development, especially in areas involved in decision-making and learning from rewards. For teens who use cannabis, these brain systems may work differently, affecting how they respond to treatment. By better understanding these patterns, researchers hope to improve support for teens working to reduce or stop cannabis use.
This study focuses on a treatment approach called contingency management, which uses rewards to encourage positive behavior change. By combining brain imaging (MRI) with real-world behavior tracking, the research team aims to identify brain-based markers that predict who benefits most from this type of treatment. This could help create more personalized and effective interventions for adolescents in the future.
Additional Information
This study aims to understand how teens’ brains process rewards and whether these patterns can predict success in reducing cannabis use through treatment.
You may be eligible for this study if you meet the following criteria.
Inclusion Criteria:
- Ages 14-17
- Teen uses cannabis weekly or has been diagnosed with cannabis use disorder in the past 3 months
- At least one parent is able to participate as well
- Teen does not have a history of Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder, intellectual disorders, pervasive development disorder or autism spectrum disorder, psychotic disorders, or a history of neurological problems (epilepsy, traumatic brain injury, brain tumor, cerebrovascular disease)
- Able to undergo an MRI (no non-removable metal on or in body or severe claustrophobia)
Participation includes several steps:
Pre-screening: A brief phone call with a parent/guardian to check eligibility
In-person visits (3 total):
Visit 1: Questionnaires and assessments (1–2 hours)
Visit 2: MRI brain scan at the IU Health Neuroscience Center
Visit 3: Final follow-up visit
Virtual visits (10 total):
Weekly 10–15 minute check-ins via Microsoft Teams
Teens can earn rewards for avoiding cannabis use
Parental involvement: Consent and participation in select study activities
Families can receive up to $371.80 total compensation for completing all study activities:
Visit 1: $60
Visit 2 (MRI): $145–$161.80
Virtual visits: $0–$100 total
Final visit: $50
Additional benefits include:
Free psychiatric and substance use assessment
Free cannabis use treatment
Free brain MRI
Transportation support: Gas cards are available for families traveling more than 90 miles.
There is no cost for you to participate in our research study.