Childhood Adversity Research Study
Researchers at Duke University are conducting a study on childhood adversity and brain responses to nicotine exposure in young adults ages 18–21.
Fast Facts
History of Childhood Adversity Who Are Not Taking Any Psychiatric Medications
18-21
Years Old
Compensation
Provided
Conducted in
Durham, NC
Study Background
How do early life experiences shape the brain’s response to nicotine?
If you are between the ages of 18 and 21 and have experienced childhood adversity, you may be eligible to participate in an important research study at Duke University. Scientists are studying how early adverse experiences affect brain function related to self-control, reward processing, and initial responses to nicotine. This could help us understand why people with difficult childhoods are more likely to start smoking.
As a participant, you’ll be helping researchers explore how the brain reacts to nicotine in people who don’t currently smoke. Your involvement could lead to better prevention strategies for smoking in youth with similar backgrounds, and you’ll be compensated for your time and effort.
Study Background
How do early life experiences shape the brain’s response to nicotine?
If you are between the ages of 18 and 21 and have experienced childhood adversity, you may be eligible to participate in an important research study at Duke University. Scientists are studying how early adverse experiences affect brain function related to self-control, reward processing, and initial responses to nicotine. This could help us understand why people with difficult childhoods are more likely to start smoking.
As a participant, you’ll be helping researchers explore how the brain reacts to nicotine in people who don’t currently smoke. Your involvement could lead to better prevention strategies for smoking in youth with similar backgrounds, and you’ll be compensated for your time and effort.
Additional Information
Researchers want to better understand how childhood adversity affects the brain’s reward and self-control systems, and how that might influence reactions to nicotine, even in people who don’t currently smoke.
You may qualify for this study if you meet the following criteria.
Inclusion Criteria:
- Ages 18-21
- Had negative childhood experiences
- Able to undergo an MRI (no non-removable metal on or in body or extreme claustrophobia)
- Willing to have blood drawn
Exclusion Criteria:
- Taking any psychiatric medications (e.g., antidepressants, antipsychotics, mood stabilizers)
- Have used recreational drugs or nicotine products more than 10 times in your lifetime
The study includes 7 sessions total:
1 remote screening session
6 in-person visits at Duke University
Here’s what to expect during the study:
Screening & Training:
Health screening and study overview
Practice MRI tasks in a mock scanner
MRI Brain Scan Session:
Functional brain imaging while completing tasks
Tasks include reward and self-control activities
3 Experimental Lab Sessions:
Nasal spray with 0, 0.5, or 1 mg of nicotine
Blood draws to measure nicotine levels
Urine samples for drug and pregnancy (if applicable) screening
Final Choice Session:
You choose whether to self-administer nicotine or a placebo nasal spray
Throughout the study:
You’ll complete surveys and questionnaires
A study physician will be on-site or on-call during all nicotine sessions
Yes! Participants can earn up to $925. This includes payment for each session, plus a completion bonus. Parking vouchers are provided for in-person visits, but you’ll need to provide your own transportation.
There is no cost for you to participate in our research study.