How opioids influence feelings of social connection with loved ones
Understanding how opioids affect the experiential and neural signatures of feelings of social connection with close others
This study is looking at how opioids can help people feel more connected to others and how a medication called naltrexone, which blocks these opioids, might make those feelings weaker; it's for adults who want to understand how these factors affect their social relationships, especially during recovery from addiction.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | San Diego State University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (San Diego, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-10831393 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research investigates the role of opioids in fostering feelings of social connection among individuals, particularly focusing on how medications like naltrexone, which block natural opioids, may inadvertently reduce these feelings. By examining both neural and experiential responses, the study aims to understand the mechanisms that maintain social bonds over time. The research employs a combination of behavioral assessments and brain imaging techniques to explore these dynamics in adults. Ultimately, the goal is to identify how these insights can inform better treatment strategies for individuals recovering from addiction.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are adults aged 21 and older who are undergoing treatment for addiction.
Not a fit: Patients who are not currently in treatment for addiction or those who do not have close social relationships may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved treatment approaches that enhance social connections for individuals recovering from addiction.
How similar studies have performed: Previous research has indicated that understanding the role of opioids in social bonding is a promising area, but this specific approach is relatively novel.
Where this research is happening
San Diego, United States
- San Diego State University — San Diego, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Inagaki, Tristen K. — San Diego State University
- Study coordinator: Inagaki, Tristen K.
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.