Through this study, researchers at Temple University want to learn more about about trajectories of reward responsiveness, inflammation, and emotion systems in teens.

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

Inclusion Criteria:

• Ages 13-16

• Experiencing extremely low motivation and/or ambition (e.g., decreased interest in previously enjoyed activities, goal-setting difficulties, persistent boredom or apathy)

• Located in Philadelphia, PA

• No current psychotic symptoms (hallucinations, delusions)

• No autism spectrum disorder

• No history of cancer, heart disease, surgery, autoimmune disease, or disorder involving chronic inflammation

• Not HIV positive

• Not taking immunosuppressant medications (e.g., an inhaler, systemic steroids, prescription nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs)

• Able to undergo MRI scan (no metal in the body, traumatic brain injury, pregnancy, or severe claustrophobia)

This is a 3-year long study involving several remote and one in-person visit per year.

During these sessions, participants will complete various tests including blood tests, self-reported behavioral measures, and fMRI scans of reward neural activity and functional connectivity. Participants will also complete interviews about reward-relevant and stress-generating life events, sleep, substance use, diet, and mood and behavior. 

Participants will also be asked to wear an Actiwatch for one week each year during the study.

As a participant, you can receive up to $750 for your time and effort.

You will receive $650 for completing the entire 3-year study with a bonus of up to $100 for completing all components ($90 for completing 90%, etc.)

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