Exploring how dog presence and oxytocin affect trust towards therapists
Official title: Effects of Intranasal Oxytocin on Trust Towards Therapists and Dogs: A Randomized Controlled Trial in Healthy Adults
Run by University of Basel · NCT06248710 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is testing whether having a dog present during therapy and using an oxytocin nasal spray can help people with depression feel more trust towards their therapists.
Quick facts
| Phase | Phase2; Phase3 |
|---|---|
| Study type | Interventional |
| Ages | 18 Years and up |
| Sex | All |
| Enrollment | 176 (estimated) |
| Sponsor | University of Basel Academic / other |
| Locations | 1 site (Basel, Canton of Basel-City) |
| Status | Recruiting |
| Started | January 29, 2024 |
| Main results expected | December 31, 2024 |
| Study ends | December 31, 2024 |
| Registry record updated | November 5, 2024 |
| Trial ID | NCT06248710 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
Is this trial a fit for you?
✓Likely a good fit
Ideal candidates for this study are adults aged 18 and older who are experiencing depressive symptoms and can provide informed consent.
✕Probably not a fit
Patients who are pregnant, have a fear of dogs, or have certain chronic diseases or ongoing psychological treatments may not benefit from this study.
A plain-English reading of the study's rules. Only the study team can confirm whether you qualify.
What this trial studies
This study investigates the role of oxytocin in enhancing trust towards therapists through the presence of dogs during therapy sessions. Participants will receive either an oxytocin nasal spray, engage in an Animal-Assisted Intervention, or receive a placebo. The research aims to clarify the neuroendocrine mechanisms that may facilitate human-animal bonding and improve therapeutic outcomes for individuals with depressive symptoms. By examining these interactions, the study seeks to advance the understanding of animal-assisted interventions in mental health care.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this study could improve therapeutic relationships and outcomes for patients with depressive symptoms through enhanced trust facilitated by oxytocin and dog presence.
How similar studies have gone: While the role of oxytocin in human bonding is well-established, the specific application of oxytocin in enhancing trust through human-animal interactions is still being explored, making this study a novel investigation.
Who can join: the full rules
Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria: * Age ≥ 18 years * Signed informed consent Exclusion Criteria: * Pregnancy * Being scared of dogs or dog hair allergy by self-report * Any acute or chronic disease (e.g., chronic pain, hypertension, heart disease, renal disease, liver disease, diabetes, respiratory disease, skin pathologies etc.) * Current medications (psychoactive medication, narcotics, intake of analgesics) or being currently in psychological or psychiatric treatment * Drug consumption (THC, cocaine, heroin, etc.) within the past 24h before study appointment * Ongoing psychotherapy treatment * Sexual Intercourse within the past 24h before study appointment * Current disease involving respiratory system (e.g., influence, asthma etc.) * Insufficient German language skills to understand the instructions
Where it's running
-
University of Basel
Basel, Canton of Basel-City, Switzerland Recruiting
Study contacts
- Study coordinator: Karin Hediger, Prof. Dr.
- Email: elena.pauli@unibas.ch
- Phone: +41 (0)61 207 65 80
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How to take part
- Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
- Check the official listing on ClinicalTrials.gov for the latest contact details and recruitment status.
- Contact the study coordinator or principal investigator to ask for pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.