Understanding how trauma affects alcohol use in young people

Trauma and Neurobiological Threat Reactivity as Risk Factors for Alcohol Abuse in Youth

NIH-funded research Ohio State University · NIH-11036406

This study is looking at how experiencing trauma can affect young people aged 16 to 19 and increase their chances of having problems with alcohol, so we can find better ways to help those who might be at risk.

Quick facts

Grant typeR01 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionOhio State University NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Columbus, UNITED STATES)
Project IDNIH-11036406 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research investigates the link between exposure to interpersonal trauma and the risk of developing alcohol use problems in youth aged 16 to 19. It aims to identify the neurobiological mechanisms that contribute to this risk, focusing on how young individuals react to unpredictable threats. By studying a cohort of 200 adolescents, some with a history of trauma and some without, the research seeks to pinpoint early intervention targets for preventing alcohol use disorders. The findings could help in developing tailored prevention strategies for at-risk youth.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are youth aged 16 to 19 who have experienced interpersonal trauma or are at risk for alcohol use problems.

Not a fit: Patients who are over 19 years old or have not experienced any form of interpersonal trauma may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved prevention strategies for alcohol use disorders in adolescents who have experienced trauma.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown that understanding the neurobiological mechanisms of trauma can lead to effective interventions, suggesting this approach has potential for success.

Where this research is happening

Columbus, 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 2026-06-13 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.