Exploring the link between obsessive-compulsive personality traits and suicide risk in veterans

Pathways to Hope: Pilot fMRI Study of OCPD and Suicide Risk in Trauma-Exposed Veterans

NIH-funded research Providence VA Medical Center · NIH-11077315

This study is looking at how certain personality traits in veterans, especially those related to obsessive-compulsive behavior, can affect their risk of suicide and emotional struggles, and it aims to find better ways to help them feel better through brain scans and therapy.

Quick facts

Grant typeNIH-funded research
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionProvidence VA Medical Center NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Providence, United States)
Project IDNIH-11077315 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research investigates how obsessive-compulsive personality traits, particularly in veterans, relate to suicide risk and emotional challenges. By using functional MRI (fMRI), the study aims to understand the brain mechanisms behind these traits and their impact on interpersonal relationships and mental health. The goal is to develop better treatment strategies that combine neuromodulation with psychotherapy to support veterans facing these issues. Participants will be monitored over time to assess changes in their functioning and emotional well-being.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are veterans who exhibit traits of obsessive-compulsive personality disorder and have experienced trauma.

Not a fit: Patients who do not have obsessive-compulsive personality traits or who are not veterans may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved treatment options that enhance the quality of life and reduce suicide risk among veterans with obsessive-compulsive personality traits.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promise in using neuromodulation techniques to enhance psychotherapy outcomes, suggesting potential success for this approach.

Where this research is happening

Providence, 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.
Last reviewed 2026-06-13 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.