Understanding the brain mechanisms behind loneliness
A hierarchical examination of the neural and computational mechanisms underlying loneliness
This study is looking at how our brains and thinking affect feelings of loneliness and social isolation, with the hope of finding new ways to help people feel more connected and less lonely.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (New York, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-10923384 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research investigates the neural and cognitive processes that contribute to feelings of loneliness and social isolation. By examining how individuals perceive, learn, and make decisions about social interactions, the study aims to uncover the underlying mechanisms that lead to loneliness. The research will utilize advanced computational models to analyze social information processing and its impact on mental health. Ultimately, the goal is to inform new strategies for improving social connections and reducing loneliness in the population.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are adults over 21 who experience feelings of loneliness or social isolation.
Not a fit: Patients who do not experience loneliness or have no interest in improving their social connections may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to innovative interventions that enhance social connections and reduce loneliness, improving overall mental health.
How similar studies have performed: Previous research has indicated that understanding the cognitive and neural basis of social behaviors can lead to effective interventions, suggesting potential success for this approach.
Where this research is happening
New York, United States
- Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai — New York, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Rhoads, Shawn a — Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai
- Study coordinator: Rhoads, Shawn a
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.