Exploring how unrealistic optimism affects opioid use and relapse

Computational psychiatry investigation of the role of unrealistic optimism in opioid use disorder and relapse

['FUNDING_R01'] · RUTGERS BIOMEDICAL AND HEALTH SCIENCES · NIH-11005768

This study is looking at how being overly optimistic might affect people with opioid use disorder and their chances of relapsing, so we can better understand their decision-making and help create more effective treatment plans.

Quick facts

Phase['FUNDING_R01']
Study typeNih_funding
SexAll
SponsorRUTGERS BIOMEDICAL AND HEALTH SCIENCES (nih funded)
Locations1 site (Newark, UNITED STATES)
Trial IDNIH-11005768 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this research studies

This research investigates the role of unrealistic optimism in patients with opioid use disorder (OUD) and how it may contribute to relapse. By utilizing advanced neurocognitive tools and a longitudinal design, the study aims to understand the decision-making processes that lead to opioid reuse. Patients will undergo assessments that measure their tolerance for uncertainty and optimism bias while participating in tasks that simulate real-life decision-making scenarios. The findings could help identify patients at higher risk for relapse and inform more effective treatment strategies.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals diagnosed with opioid use disorder who are currently engaged in treatment.

Not a fit: Patients who are not currently undergoing treatment for opioid use disorder may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved interventions that reduce the risk of relapse in individuals with opioid use disorder.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding decision-making processes in addiction, suggesting that this approach could yield valuable insights.

Where this research is happening

Newark, 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 →

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.