Understanding how social connections affect adolescent well-being
Official title: Reciprocity of Social Connection and Well-Being: Convergence of Temporal and Neural Underpinnings of Adolescent Social Connection Quality, Quantity, and Need
Funded at Arizona State University-Tempe Campus · NIH-11103355 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how friendships and social interactions affect the mental health of teenagers, helping us understand what kinds of connections are most beneficial for their well-being.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Arizona State University-Tempe Campus NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Tempe, United States) |
| Project start | September 1, 2023 |
| Project end | May 31, 2028 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $647,901 |
| NIH project number | 5R01HD107593-03 |
| Project ID | NIH-11103355 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are adolescents aged 12 to 20 who are experiencing changes in their social connections.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who are not within the adolescent age range or who do not have significant social connection issues may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the relationship between social connections and well-being in adolescents, focusing on how the quality, quantity, and need for social interactions influence mental health. By using methods such as daily diaries and neurobiological assessments, the study aims to track changes in social connections and their impact on well-being over time. The research will explore both short-term fluctuations and long-term trends, providing insights into how these factors interact during a critical developmental period. Participants will contribute to understanding the importance of social relationships in promoting positive mental health outcomes.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved strategies for enhancing adolescent mental health through better social connection practices.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding the impact of social connections on mental health, making this approach both relevant and potentially impactful.
Where this research is happening
-
Arizona State University-Tempe Campus
Tempe, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Xia, Mengya — Arizona State University-Tempe Campus
- Study coordinator: Xia, Mengya
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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.