Using TMS to Understand Neural Processes of Social Motivation

Launched by AUBURN UNIVERSITY · Feb 15, 2024

Keywords

ClinConnect Summary

This clinical trial is exploring how a technique called transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS) can help researchers understand the brain processes involved in social motivation. The study focuses on adults who struggle with social situations, have symptoms of depression, or experience social anxiety. By using TMS, the researchers hope to learn more about the neural pathways in the brain that influence social behaviors.

To participate, you need to be between 25 and 50 years old and live in the Auburn/Opelika area. You should have a diagnosis of either Major Depressive Disorder or Social Anxiety Disorder, and show signs of avoiding social interactions. The study requires four visits over approximately a month, each lasting between 1.5 to 3 hours. During these visits, you'll answer surveys, participate in interviews and computer tasks, and undergo MRI scans along with TMS sessions. Please note that there are certain health conditions that may prevent you from participating, such as recent changes in medication or a history of seizures. Overall, this study aims to deepen our understanding of how our brains work when it comes to social interactions.

Gender

ALL

Eligibility criteria

• Inclusion Criteria:
• • A diagnosis of Major Depressive Disorder OR a diagnosis of Social Anxiety Disorder (assessed/confirmed at screening visit).
• • Scoring above clinical threshold on a measure of social avoidant behavior (assessed/confirmed at screening visit).
• Exclusion Criteria:
• • Unstable medication regimen (i.e., changes in medication or dosage in past 3 months).
• • Current or lifetime diagnosis of Bipolar Disorder.
• • A diagnosis of substance use disorder within past 12 months.
• • A diagnosis of psychotic-spectrum disorder such as Schizophrenia.
• • Pregnancy or probable pregnancy.
• • Medical illness or medical treatment that would preclude or inhibit study participation.
• • Neurological disorder or prior neurosurgical procedure.
• • History of seizures or head trauma.
• • Metal implants or objects within body (e.g., pacemaker).