Training to improve response inhibition in obsessive-compulsive disorders

Neural Mechanisms of Response Inhibition Training for Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder and Related Conditions

Not applicable Interventional University of Wisconsin, Milwaukee · NCT05377125

This study is testing a new computer training program to see if it can help people with obsessive-compulsive disorders, like OCD and skin picking, improve their ability to control their urges.

Quick facts

PhaseNot applicable
Study typeInterventional
Enrollment118 (estimated)
Ages18 Years to 60 Years
SexAll
SponsorUniversity of Wisconsin, Milwaukee Academic / other
Locations1 site (Milwaukee, Wisconsin)
Trial IDNCT05377125 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this trial studies

This project investigates the effects of a novel computerized intervention called response inhibition training (RIT) on individuals with obsessive-compulsive and related disorders (OCRD), including OCD, trichotillomania, and skin picking disorder. Participants will be randomly assigned to either the RIT or a placebo training group, undergoing 8 to 16 sessions. The study aims to assess changes in neural indicators of response inhibition and their correlation with improvements in OCRD symptoms. By utilizing neurobehavioral measures and brain imaging, the research seeks to establish a mechanistic link between enhanced response inhibition and symptom reduction.

Who should consider this trial

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this study are adults aged 18 to 60 with a primary diagnosis of OCD, trichotillomania, or skin picking disorder and moderate symptom severity.

Not a fit: Patients with current substance use disorders, severe ADHD, or other significant psychiatric conditions may not benefit from this study.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this intervention could provide a new, effective treatment option for patients suffering from OCRDs by directly targeting and improving response inhibition deficits.

How similar studies have performed: While the approach of using computerized cognitive training for response inhibition is innovative, previous studies have indicated that addressing response inhibition deficits may be beneficial for similar conditions, suggesting potential for success.

Eligibility criteria

Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria:

* age between 18 and 60
* moderate level of OCRD symptoms (Yale-Brown Obsessive Compulsive Scale total ≥ 16, Massachusetts General Hospital-Hair pulling Scale total ≥ 12, or Skin Picking Scale-Revised total ≥ 7)
* a primary diagnosis of OCRD (i.e., OCD, TTM, or SPD)
* estimated IQ \> 80
* presence of a RI deficits (SSRT ≥ 215ms).

Exclusion Criteria:

* Current substance use disorder
* Severe ADHD
* Lifetime diagnosis of psychotic disorder, bipolar disorder, or schizophrenia
* Current psychotherapy
* Change in psychotropic medication status within 8 weeks before the study or during the study
* Use of stimulant medication
* Active suicidal risk
* Contraindications for MRI procedures

Where this trial is running

Milwaukee, Wisconsin

Study contacts

How to participate

  1. Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
  2. Visit the official trial page on ClinicalTrials.gov for the most current contact information and recruitment status.
  3. Contact the listed study coordinator or principal investigator to request pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.
Conditions Obsessive-Compulsive DisorderTricholemmomaSkin-PickingOCDTrichotillomaniaExcoriationResponse Inhibition
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.