Understanding how people make choices when they are unsure of the outcomes
Cognitive and reward signals for choices under ambiguity
This study looks at how people make choices when they don't have all the information they need, especially focusing on those with neurological and psychiatric conditions, to understand why some decisions might not go well.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Pittsburgh at Pittsburgh NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Pittsburgh, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-10995335 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research investigates how individuals make decisions in situations where they lack complete information, focusing on the differences between risk and ambiguity. It explores how cognitive and reward signals influence decision-making, particularly in individuals with neurological and psychiatric disorders. By examining the brain's response to uncertain choices, the study aims to uncover the underlying mechanisms that lead to poor decision-making. Patients may participate in experiments that assess their decision-making processes under various conditions of uncertainty.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates include individuals with neurological or psychiatric disorders that affect decision-making abilities.
Not a fit: Patients who do not experience decision-making impairments or those with conditions unrelated to cognitive or behavioral decision processes may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved strategies for helping patients make better decisions in uncertain situations, potentially enhancing their quality of life.
How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding decision-making under risk, but this specific focus on ambiguity is less explored, making it a novel approach.
Where this research is happening
Pittsburgh, United States
- University of Pittsburgh at Pittsburgh — Pittsburgh, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Stauffer, William Richard — University of Pittsburgh at Pittsburgh
- Study coordinator: Stauffer, William Richard
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.