Exploring how cultural factors protect American Indians from mental health issues

Neuroscientific Exploration of Cultural Protective Factors in American Indians

['FUNDING_OTHER'] · LAUREATE INSTITUTE FOR BRAIN RESEARCH · NIH-10982503

This study is looking at how cultural practices and social support can help improve mental health for American Indian communities, especially since they experience higher rates of suicide and mental health issues, and it involves brain scans and tests to see how these factors work together.

Quick facts

Phase['FUNDING_OTHER']
Study typeNih_funding
SexAll
SponsorLAUREATE INSTITUTE FOR BRAIN RESEARCH (nih funded)
Locations1 site (TULSA, UNITED STATES)
Trial IDNIH-10982503 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this research studies

This research investigates the protective effects of cultural factors on mental health among American Indian populations, who face high rates of suicide and mental health disorders. By examining the relationship between cultural practices, social support, and cognitive control, the study aims to uncover the neural mechanisms that contribute to better mental health outcomes. Participants will undergo behavioral assessments and neuroimaging techniques, such as EEG and fMRI, to measure cognitive control and its association with cultural factors. The findings could inform culturally tailored prevention and intervention strategies for mental health.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for participation include American Indian individuals experiencing mental health concerns or those interested in the impact of cultural factors on mental health.

Not a fit: Patients who do not identify as American Indian or those without mental health concerns may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved mental health interventions that are culturally relevant and effective for American Indian communities.

How similar studies have performed: While there is limited research specifically examining the neural underpinnings of cultural protective factors in American Indians, similar studies have shown promising results in other populations regarding the impact of cultural factors on mental health.

Where this research is happening

TULSA, UNITED STATES

Researchers

About this research

  1. This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
  2. Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
  3. For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.

View on NIH RePORTER →

Conditions: Affective Disorders

Last reviewed 2026-05-15 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.