How stress affects decision-making in people with alcohol use disorder

The effects of stress on decision-making in alcohol use disorder: A translational approach

['FUNDING_R21'] · UNIVERSITY OF CALIFORNIA LOS ANGELES · NIH-10809031

This study is looking at how stress affects decision-making in people with alcohol use problems compared to those without, using brain scans to see how stress changes the way we think and make choices about drinking.

Quick facts

Phase['FUNDING_R21']
Study typeNih_funding
SexAll
SponsorUNIVERSITY OF CALIFORNIA LOS ANGELES (nih funded)
Locations1 site (LOS ANGELES, UNITED STATES)
Trial IDNIH-10809031 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this research studies

This research investigates how acute stress impacts decision-making abilities in individuals with alcohol use disorder (AUD) compared to those without. Participants will undergo stress-induction tasks while their brain activity is monitored using functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI). The study aims to understand the relationship between stress and cognitive processes like flexibility and habit learning, which are crucial for making decisions about alcohol use. By analyzing these effects, the research seeks to uncover underlying brain mechanisms that could inform treatment strategies for AUD.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals aged 18 and older who have been diagnosed with alcohol use disorder and are not currently seeking treatment.

Not a fit: Patients who do not have alcohol use disorder or those who are actively seeking treatment may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved treatment approaches for individuals struggling with alcohol use disorder by enhancing our understanding of how stress influences their decision-making.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding the effects of stress on decision-making in various populations, suggesting that this approach could yield valuable insights.

Where this research is happening

LOS ANGELES, 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.