Using brain feedback to improve emotion regulation
Official title: Enhancing Emotion Regulation Through fNIRS-informed Real-time Neurofeedback
Run by University of Electronic Science and Technology of China · NCT06866028 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is testing if brain feedback training can help healthy people manage their negative emotions better.
Quick facts
| Study type | Interventional |
|---|---|
| Ages | 18 Years to 30 Years |
| Sex | All |
| Enrollment | 50 (estimated) |
| Sponsor | University of Electronic Science and Technology of China Academic / other |
| Locations | 1 site (Hong Kong) |
| Status | Recruiting |
| Started | August 8, 2024 |
| Main results expected | August 7, 2026 |
| Study ends | August 7, 2026 |
| Registry record updated | March 27, 2025 |
| Trial ID | NCT06866028 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
Is this trial a fit for you?
✓Likely a good fit
Ideal candidates are healthy individuals who are right-handed and have normal or corrected-to-normal vision without significant levels of depression.
✕Probably not a fit
Patients with current or historical mental health conditions or chronic pain 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 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.
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 gone: Previous studies have shown promise in using neurofeedback for emotion regulation, suggesting potential for success in this approach.
Who can join: the full rules
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 it's running
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The Hong Kong Jockey Club Building For Interdisciplinary Research, 5 Sassoon Rd, Sandy Bay
Hong Kong, Hong Kong Recruiting
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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.