Using brain feedback to improve emotion regulation
Enhancing Emotion Regulation Through fNIRS-informed Real-time Neurofeedback
This study is testing if brain feedback training can help healthy people manage their negative emotions better.
Quick facts
| Phase | Not applicable |
|---|---|
| Study type | Interventional |
| Enrollment | 50 (estimated) |
| Ages | 18 Years to 30 Years |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | University of Electronic Science and Technology of China Academic / other |
| Locations | 1 site (Hong Kong) |
| Trial ID | NCT06866028 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this trial studies
This study employs real-time functional near-infrared spectroscopy (fNIRS) neurofeedback training combined with cognitive reappraisal strategies to help healthy individuals regulate negative emotions. Participants will undergo cognitive reappraisal training with either real or sham neurofeedback, complete questionnaires before and after training, and participate in a cold-pressor test. The hypothesis is that real-time fNIRS neurofeedback will enhance neural activity in the prefrontal cortex, leading to improved emotion regulation during exposure to negative stimuli. This innovative approach aims to address the growing mental health challenges related to stress and emotional dysregulation.
Who should consider this trial
Good fit: Ideal candidates are healthy individuals who are right-handed and have normal or corrected-to-normal vision without significant levels of depression.
Not a fit: Patients with current or historical mental health conditions or chronic pain may not benefit from this study.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this approach could provide individuals with effective tools for managing negative emotions and stress.
How similar studies have performed: Previous studies have shown promise in using neurofeedback for emotion regulation, suggesting potential for success in this approach.
Eligibility criteria
Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria: * Normal/corrected-to-normal vision * Right-handed * Below the cut-off for clinically-significant levels of depression (below 29) indicated by the Beck Depression Inventory (BDI-II; Beck et al., 1996) Exclusion Criteria: * Current/history of mental health conditions * Current/history of chronic pain * The following conditions: Cardiovascular disorder, Raynaud's phenomenon, fainting, seizure, wounds on the hand/arm * Frequent use of alcohol/nicotine
Where this trial is running
Hong Kong
- The Hong Kong Jockey Club Building For Interdisciplinary Research, 5 Sassoon Rd, Sandy Bay — Hong Kong, Hong Kong (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.