How brain activity and maternal care influence anxiety in children

Precursors of Anxiety: The Role of Lateralized Brain Activation and Maternal Sensitivity

NIH-funded research Washington State University · NIH-11218707

This study looks at how the way a baby's brain works and how caring their mom is can influence whether the baby develops anxiety, helping us find ways to support kids who might be anxious as they grow up.

Quick facts

Grant typeR01 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionWashington State University NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Pullman, United States)
Project IDNIH-11218707 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research investigates how differences in brain activation and maternal sensitivity contribute to the development of anxiety in children. By using electroencephalogram (EEG) recordings, the study aims to identify specific patterns of brain activity that are linked to fearful behaviors in infants. It also explores how maternal responsiveness can affect these patterns and potentially mitigate anxiety symptoms. The goal is to better understand the early markers of anxiety to inform prevention and intervention strategies.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research include infants and young children who exhibit signs of fearful temperament or anxiety-related behaviors.

Not a fit: Patients who are adults or do not exhibit any signs of anxiety or fearful temperament may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to early identification and intervention strategies for anxiety disorders in children.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding the relationship between brain activity and anxiety, making this approach both relevant and potentially impactful.

Where this research is happening

Pullman, 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.