How observing aggression affects behavior in children
Neural mechanisms of socially transmitted aggression
This study looks at how kids might learn to be aggressive by watching others, using mice to understand how their brains work when they see someone being aggressive, and it hopes to find ways to help prevent aggressive behavior in children who witness violence.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R21 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Southern Illinois University Carbondale NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Carbondale, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11051313 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research investigates how children learn aggressive behaviors by observing others, particularly focusing on the neural mechanisms involved. Using a novel approach with mice, the study examines how familiarity with an aggressor influences the likelihood of aggressive behavior in witnesses. By analyzing brain activity in specific regions associated with aggression, the research aims to uncover the biological pathways that contribute to learned aggression. The findings could provide insights into preventing aggressive behaviors in children exposed to violence.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are children aged 0-11 years who have been exposed to aggressive behaviors in their environment.
Not a fit: Patients who are not children or who have not been exposed to aggressive behaviors may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new strategies for preventing aggression in children and improving mental health outcomes.
How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown success in understanding aggression through animal models, indicating that this approach has potential for valuable insights.
Where this research is happening
Carbondale, United States
- Southern Illinois University Carbondale — Carbondale, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Nordman, Jacob — Southern Illinois University Carbondale
- Study coordinator: Nordman, Jacob
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.