PTSD Research Study
Researchers at UTHealth Houston are conducting a study in adults with post-traumatic stress disorder to better understand how PTSD affects the brain.
Fast Facts
Current Symptoms of PTSD
18+
Years Old
Compensation
Provided
Conducted On-Site
in Houston, TX
Study Background
Avoidance responses, emotional learning, and memory
An avoidance response is any behavior you might do to avoid a negative or unpleasant situation. For example, someone who has experienced a traumatic event may go out of their way to avoid reminders of the event that could cause painful thoughts and feelings.
In this research study, we want to use functional MRI to investigate how the brain learns about avoidance responses, emotional learning, and memory. If you have current symptoms of PTSD, you could be a good fit for the study. See if you are eligible to enroll today.
Study Background
Avoidance responses, emotional learning, and memory
An avoidance response is any behavior you might do to avoid a negative or unpleasant situation. For example, someone who has experienced a traumatic event may go out of their way to avoid reminders of the event that could cause painful thoughts and feelings.
In this research study, we want to use functional MRI to investigate how the brain learns about avoidance responses, emotional learning, and memory. If you have current symptoms of PTSD, you could be a good fit for the study. See if you are eligible to enroll today.
Additional Information
The purpose of this research study is to understand how we learn to fear, and learn not to fear, certain stimuli. We hope that a deeper understanding of the brain’s emotional learning and avoidance may eventually lead to better treatments for PTSD and related disorders.
You may be eligible for this study if you meet the following criteria.
Inclusion Criteria:
- 18+ years old
- Current symptoms of PTSD
- No history of seizures, head injury, or neurological disorders (e.g., tics, tremors, migraine headaches)
- Able to attend 2-4 on-site study visits in Houston, TX
This study includes 3 in-person visits:
- One eligibility assessment (approximately 2 hours)
- Two fMRI scans (approximately 2 hours each, on two consecutive days)
As a participant, you may receive up to $230 if you complete all study procedures.
There is no cost for you to participate in our research study.