Exploring how early life experiences affect brain and behavior
Effects of Early Trauma on Neurocognitive Development and Mental Health
This study looks at how early life experiences like adoption and trauma affect brain development and behavior in young adults to help identify those at risk for mental health issues later on.
Quick facts
| Study type | Observational |
|---|---|
| Enrollment | 120 (estimated) |
| Ages | 18 Years to 25 Years |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | University of Manchester Academic / other |
| Locations | 1 site (Manchester) |
| Trial ID | NCT06823492 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this trial studies
This observational study aims to investigate the influence of early life experiences, such as adoption and trauma, on brain development, behavior, and the immune system in young adults. Participants will undergo a series of assessments including psychological questionnaires, online cognitive games, and brain imaging via fMRI. The goal is to enhance understanding of how these experiences can lead to mental health challenges later in life, ultimately aiding in the identification of individuals at risk for future issues. By gathering comprehensive data, the study seeks to inform interventions that can provide timely support to vulnerable populations.
Who should consider this trial
Good fit: Ideal candidates are young adults aged 18-24 who have lived with their birth parents throughout childhood and are currently not enrolled in university.
Not a fit: Patients who have not lived with their birth parents during childhood or those currently enrolled in a university degree program may not benefit from this study.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved identification and support for young people at risk of developing mental health issues.
How similar studies have performed: Other studies have shown success in understanding the impacts of early life experiences on mental health, making this approach both relevant and promising.
Eligibility criteria
Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria: * Age 18-24 * Reside in Greater Manchester * You are not enrolled on a university degree course and do not hold a university degree qualification * Lived with one or both birth parents throughout childhood. * Able to travel to the University of Manchester * Able to understand the study information and participate in the assessment procedures described below (independently or with reading support from a researcher, friend or family member) * Able to read text on a computer screen (using glasses or contact lenses if required) * To sign up for this study one or more of the following statements should apply to you: 1. I am not currently in education employment or training, or I am unemployed. 2. I receive benefits from the Government e.g., housing benefits, universal credit, personal independent payment (PIP), disability benefit, job seekers allowance. 3. I am currently struggling due mental health problems or neurodiversity (e.g., depression, anxiety, ADHD, autism, eating disorder) Exclusion Criteria: * You were looked after by the local authority (e.g., foster, kinship care or residential children's home) or adopted during childhood. * Any experience of childhood trauma (including neglect, physical/verbal abuse, sexual abuse or exposure to domestic violence). * Your family required input from social services due to child protection concerns. * You are experiencing symptoms of and have been diagnosed with Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), borderline personality disorder (BPD), Emotionally Unstable Personality Disorder (EUPD).
Where this trial is running
Manchester
- Faculty of Biology Medicine & Health, University of Manchester — Manchester, United Kingdom (Recruiting)
How to participate
- Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
- Visit the official trial page on ClinicalTrials.gov for the most current contact information and recruitment status.
- Contact the listed study coordinator or principal investigator to request pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.