Understanding how persistent thoughts about alcohol affect drinking behavior

Investigating neural and behavioral indications of persistent alcohol-related thoughts

NIH-funded research Yale University · NIH-11070583

This study is looking at how people with alcohol use disorder and those who drink heavily think about alcohol and how it affects their cravings and choices, with the hope of finding better ways to help them manage their drinking.

Quick facts

Grant typeFellowship grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionYale University NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (New Haven, United States)
Project IDNIH-11070583 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research investigates the neural and behavioral aspects of how individuals with alcohol use disorder and risky drinkers process alcohol-related thoughts. By analyzing existing brain imaging data and conducting new behavioral tasks, the study aims to identify the cognitive markers that contribute to persistent cravings and memories associated with alcohol. The goal is to understand how these persistent thoughts influence future drinking decisions, which could lead to better interventions for those struggling with alcohol use. Patients may be asked to participate in tasks that assess their responses to alcohol-related stimuli.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research include individuals diagnosed with alcohol use disorder or those who engage in risky drinking behaviors.

Not a fit: Patients who do not consume alcohol or have no history of alcohol-related issues may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved strategies for reducing alcohol cravings and preventing relapse in individuals with alcohol use disorder.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding the neural mechanisms of alcohol cravings, suggesting that this approach could yield valuable insights.

Where this research is happening

New Haven, 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.
Conditions addictive disorder
Last reviewed 2026-06-15 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.