Finding the right treatments for cognitive issues in offenders with substance use problems

Matching Treatments to Cognitive Deficits in Offenders with Substance Use Disorders

NIH-funded research Lovelace Biomedical Research Institute · NIH-11193431

This study is looking at how to help people with substance use issues who also have trouble with thinking and attention by matching them with special training programs that fit their needs, so they can improve their skills and feel better.

Quick facts

Grant typeR01 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionLovelace Biomedical Research Institute NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Albuquerque, United States)
Project IDNIH-11193431 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research investigates how different types of cognitive deficits in offenders with substance use disorders can be matched with specific cognitive skills training interventions. The study focuses on two subtypes of antisocial offenders, one with attention-based abnormalities and another with hyper-reactivity to personal cues. By conducting a randomized clinical trial, the research aims to demonstrate the effectiveness of tailored interventions that address these unique cognitive-emotional dysfunctions. Patients will undergo assessments to identify their specific cognitive deficits, which will then guide the targeted treatment they receive.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are offenders with substance use disorders who exhibit specific cognitive deficits related to attention or emotional regulation.

Not a fit: Patients without substance use disorders or those who do not exhibit cognitive deficits may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to more effective treatment strategies for offenders with substance use disorders, improving their cognitive functioning and reducing recidivism.

How similar studies have performed: Previous pilot studies have shown promising results in improving outcomes for offenders by matching cognitive deficits with targeted interventions, indicating potential for success in this larger trial.

Where this research is happening

Albuquerque, 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.