Understanding how the brain makes complex decisions

Mechanisms of multi-attribute decision-making

NIH-funded research Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai · NIH-10932265

This study is looking at how our brains make smart choices when faced with complicated decisions, especially when we have to think about different factors at the same time, and it aims to help us understand why some people with mental health issues might struggle with decision-making.

Quick facts

Grant typeR01 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionIcahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (New York, United States)
Project IDNIH-10932265 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research investigates how the brain processes information to make optimal decisions, particularly in complex scenarios where multiple attributes must be weighed. It focuses on the orbitofrontal cortex, a brain region crucial for decision-making, and aims to develop a comprehensive model of how this area functions during multi-attribute choices. By employing a multi-modal approach, the research will explore different frameworks of decision formation, including how values of various attributes are integrated or compete against each other. This could provide insights into decision-making deficits commonly seen in psychiatric disorders.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research include individuals with psychiatric disorders that affect decision-making abilities.

Not a fit: Patients without any decision-making deficits or those not diagnosed with psychiatric disorders may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved understanding and treatment of decision-making deficits in patients with psychiatric disorders.

How similar studies have performed: Other research has shown success in understanding decision-making processes in the brain, making this approach both relevant and promising.

Where this research is happening

New York, 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 2026-06-09 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.