How early brain development affects aggressive and impulsive behavior

Developmental Origins of Aggressive and Impulsive Behavior

['FUNDING_R01'] · NEW YORK STATE PSYCHIATRIC INSTITUTE DBA RESEARCH FOUNDATION FOR MENTAL HYGIENE, INC · NIH-11018566

This study looks at how the brain develops during teenage years and how that affects aggressive and impulsive behaviors, hoping to find new ways to help people manage these traits by understanding the role of certain brain chemicals.

Quick facts

Phase['FUNDING_R01']
Study typeNih_funding
SexAll
SponsorNEW YORK STATE PSYCHIATRIC INSTITUTE DBA RESEARCH FOUNDATION FOR MENTAL HYGIENE, INC (nih funded)
Locations1 site (NEW YORK, UNITED STATES)
Trial IDNIH-11018566 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this research studies

This research investigates the biological mechanisms behind aggressive and impulsive behaviors, focusing on how brain development during adolescence influences these traits. By studying the roles of neurotransmitters like dopamine and serotonin, the research aims to understand how these chemicals affect brain circuits related to aggression. The study uses animal models to explore how changes in these neurotransmitters during critical developmental periods can lead to increased aggression and impulsivity in adulthood. Patients may benefit from insights that could lead to new treatments for managing aggressive behaviors.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for participation or benefit from this research include adolescents and adults who exhibit aggressive or impulsive behaviors.

Not a fit: Patients with no history of aggression or impulsivity may not receive benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new strategies for preventing and treating aggressive and impulsive behaviors in individuals.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding the role of neurotransmitters in aggression, suggesting that this approach could yield valuable insights.

Where this research is happening

NEW YORK, 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.