Understanding the costs of self-control
Neural and Affective Mechanisms Underlying Prospective Self-control Costs
This study is trying to see how much people are willing to pay to resist tempting rewards that can lead to self-control problems, while also looking at how stress affects their decision-making.
Quick facts
| Phase | Not applicable |
|---|---|
| Study type | Interventional |
| Enrollment | 300 (estimated) |
| Ages | 18 Years to 70 Years |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | NYU Langone Health Academic / other |
| Locations | 1 site (New York, New York) |
| Trial ID | NCT05795179 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this trial studies
This study investigates the cognitive, neural, and affective mechanisms behind self-control failures, which are common challenges for many individuals. Participants will engage in a decision-making task to assess how much they are willing to pay to avoid tempting rewards that could lead to self-control issues. The study will utilize various stress-inducing tasks and functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI) to explore the neural correlates and connectivity patterns associated with self-control costs. By examining the impact of different stressors, the research aims to deepen our understanding of the factors influencing self-control.
Who should consider this trial
Good fit: Ideal candidates are adults aged 18-70 who are fluent in English and are actively maintaining or losing weight through dietary changes.
Not a fit: Patients with a history of neurological or psychiatric diseases, certain medical conditions, or those who are pregnant may not benefit from this study.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this study could provide insights into the mechanisms of self-control, potentially leading to better strategies for managing self-control failures.
How similar studies have performed: While the specific approach of this study may be novel, previous research has explored related concepts of self-control and stress, indicating potential for success.
Eligibility criteria
Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria: * 18-70 years of age, able to speak, read, and write fluently in English * be willing and able to follow study procedures and provide informed consent. * Must additionally confirm they are on a diet to maintain/lose weight and are implementing/maintaining dietary changes. Exclusion Criteria: * History of or medication for neurologic or psychiatric disease * High-blood pressure or heart condition * Diabetes, food allergies, metabolic disorders or history of eating disorder * Use of corticosteroids or beta-blockers * Metallic implants or devices contraindicating magnetic resonance imaging. * Pregnancy is considered an exclusion criteria due to all stress and scanning procedures, thus pregnant participants will not be permitted to participate in the study.
Where this trial is running
New York, New York
- NYU Langone Health — New York, New York, United States (Recruiting)
Study contacts
- Principal investigator: Candace Raio — NYU Langone Health
- Study coordinator: Candace Raio
- Email: candace.raio@nyulangone.org
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.