How food insecurity affects children's brain reward systems
The influence of food insecurity on reward neurobiology in children
This study is looking at how not having enough food can affect the way kids and teens feel rewards and make choices, to help understand if it might lead to a higher chance of using drugs later on.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R21 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Pennsylvania State University, the NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (University Park, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-10470300 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research investigates the impact of food insecurity on the brain's reward systems in children and adolescents. It focuses on understanding how a lack of consistent access to food can influence neural processes related to reward and decision-making. By examining the effects of food deprivation and associated stress on brain development, the study aims to uncover potential links between food insecurity and increased risk for substance use. Participants may undergo assessments that evaluate their reward sensitivity and decision-making processes in relation to food and other rewards.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are children and adolescents aged 0-21 who experience food insecurity, particularly those from rural areas.
Not a fit: Patients who do not experience food insecurity or are outside the age range of 0-21 may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to better interventions for children facing food insecurity, potentially reducing their risk of substance use and improving their overall mental health.
How similar studies have performed: Previous research has indicated that food deprivation can alter reward processing in both humans and animal models, suggesting that this approach has a foundation in established findings.
Where this research is happening
University Park, United States
- Pennsylvania State University, the — University Park, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Rose, Emma Jane — Pennsylvania State University, the
- Study coordinator: Rose, Emma Jane
About this research
- This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
- Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
- For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.