Understanding how friends help each other manage social anxiety

Examining emotion regulation processes in social anxiety from an interpersonal and observational perspective

['FUNDING_R15'] · OHIO UNIVERSITY ATHENS · NIH-10358963

This study looks at how friends can help each other deal with social anxiety by talking about their feelings and supporting one another, and it's for pairs of friends who experience different levels of social anxiety.

Quick facts

Phase['FUNDING_R15']
Study typeNih_funding
SexAll
SponsorOHIO UNIVERSITY ATHENS (nih funded)
Locations1 site (ATHENS, UNITED STATES)
Trial IDNIH-10358963 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this research studies

This research investigates the ways in which friends interact to help each other cope with social anxiety. It focuses on the emotional regulation processes that occur during these interactions, such as how friends discuss their feelings and support one another. By studying 140 pairs of friends with varying levels of social anxiety, the research aims to identify specific behaviors that can alleviate symptoms of social anxiety in both individuals. Participants will engage in both laboratory settings and their daily lives to provide a comprehensive view of these dynamics.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals experiencing social anxiety, particularly those who have friends willing to participate in the study.

Not a fit: Patients who do not experience social anxiety or who are not willing to engage in social interactions may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved strategies for managing social anxiety through enhanced interpersonal support.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown that interpersonal support can significantly impact mental health outcomes, suggesting that this approach may yield valuable insights.

Where this research is happening

ATHENS, 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 →

Conditions: Mental disorders, Mental health disorders, Psychiatric Disease, Psychiatric Disorder, psychological disorder

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.