Using Pavlovian methods to improve self-control in children
Official title: Pavlovian Approaches to Promoting Self-Control
Funded at Utah State University · NIH-11067817 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how special training can help kids make better choices and avoid impulsive decisions, especially when it comes to using substances, with the hope of creating easier and more effective programs to support their self-control.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R21 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Utah State University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Logan, United States) |
| Project start | April 15, 2024 |
| Project end | March 31, 2026 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $178,301 |
| NIH project number | 5R21DA058906-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-11067817 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are children and adolescents aged 0-11 who may be at risk for impulsive behaviors or substance use.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who are older than 11 years or those who do not exhibit impulsive behaviors may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates how Pavlovian training techniques can help reduce impulsive decision-making in children, particularly in relation to substance use. By conditioning responses in a controlled environment, the study aims to establish methods that can be adapted for prevention programs targeting impulsivity and substance use in youth. The approach involves training that requires fewer sessions than traditional methods, making it more feasible for practical application. The ultimate goal is to translate these findings into effective interventions for improving self-control in children and adolescents.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new strategies for preventing impulsive behaviors and substance use in children and adolescents.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promise in using Pavlovian methods to influence behavior, suggesting that this approach may yield beneficial results.
Where this research is happening
-
Utah State University
Logan, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Madden, Gregory J — Utah State University
- Study coordinator: Madden, Gregory J
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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.