This study is being conducted to better understand how the brain processes emotions, especially anger and depression. Researchers hope this work will improve scientific understanding of emotional functioning and help inform future mental health treatments and interventions.

You may be eligible for this study if you meet the following criteria.

Inclusion Criteria:

• Men ages 18-45
• Experiencing symptoms of depression
• Right-handed
• Able to undergo an MRI (e.g., no metal in the body, no claustrophobia)
  
  

Exclusion Criteria:

• Currently receiving treatment (no psychiatric medications or therapy)
• History of bipolar or psychotic disorder
• Major conditions that affect brain function
• Currently drinking alcohol, smoking, vaping, or using any other substances

Participation includes several parts over approximately one year:

1. Virtual Screening Visits
   You will complete one 3–5 hour session or two 2–3 hour virtual sessions that include interviews, psychiatric evaluations, and questionnaires.
2. In-Person MRI & Laboratory Visit
   

   Eligible participants will attend one in-person visit on Ohio State’s Columbus campus. During this visit, you will:

   • Complete questionnaires and computer-based tasks
   • Participate in a reaction-time task
   • Undergo a functional MRI (fMRI) brain scan while viewing words and images

   The MRI uses magnetic fields and radio waves to take pictures of the brain. It is non-invasive, does not involve needles or blood, and is not painful.

3. Daily Questionnaires
   For 10 days after the in-person visit and after each follow-up visit, you will receive brief surveys through a smartphone app. These include:

   • Four short prompts sent throughout the day
   • One evening assessment
     

   Total daily time commitment is expected to be less than 30 minutes per day. Smartphones can be provided if needed.

4. Follow-Up Visits

   You will complete three additional virtual follow-up visits at:

   • 4 months
   • 8 months
   • 12 months
5.  

Participants will be compensated for each portion of the study they complete, with the opportunity to receive up to $740 total.

Compensation includes:

• $40 for completing the screening sessions
• $100 for completing the MRI/laboratory visit
• Payment for each follow-up visit
• Compensation for completing daily questionnaires, including bonus opportunities for high completion rates

Additional participant support includes:

• $10 reimbursement for parking during the in-person visit
• Optional prepaid Lyft transportation between campus buildings during the visit
• A copy of the structural brain images for participants who complete the MRI scan successfully

The study includes only one in-person visit and is intended for individuals located within approximately 50 miles of Columbus, Ohio.

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