Understanding different brain reward systems in adolescents with ADHD

Computational Modeling-Informed Reward Subgroups in Adolescent ADHD

NIH-funded research Hartford Hospital · NIH-10761714

This study is looking at how different brain issues affect ADHD in teens aged 12 to 20, and it wants to find out how their responses to rewards can help us understand the different ways ADHD can show up in young people.

Quick facts

Grant typeR01 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionHartford Hospital NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Hartford, United States)
Project IDNIH-10761714 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research investigates how various neurobiological dysfunctions contribute to ADHD in adolescents aged 12 to 20. By examining a large group of ADHD-diagnosed and non-ADHD adolescents, the study aims to identify distinct subgroups based on their reward processing behaviors. Participants will undergo a series of tests designed to assess different aspects of reward behavior, such as reinforcement learning and effort expenditure. The goal is to shift the understanding of ADHD from a one-size-fits-all model to one that recognizes the diversity in neurobiological causes.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are adolescents aged 12 to 20 who have been diagnosed with ADHD or are non-ADHD peers for comparison.

Not a fit: Patients outside the age range of 12 to 20 or those without an ADHD diagnosis may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to more personalized treatment approaches for adolescents with ADHD, improving their management and outcomes.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promise in identifying distinct neurobiological subgroups in ADHD, suggesting that this approach could yield valuable insights.

Where this research is happening

Hartford, 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.
Last reviewed 2026-06-13 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.