Using brain stimulation to reduce aggression in adults with developmental disabilities
The Use of Transcranial Direct Current Stimulation (tDCS) to Reduce Impulsivity and Aggression in Adults With Developmental Disabilities: The tDCS-RIADD Randomized Controlled Trial Protocol
This study is testing if a brain stimulation technique can help reduce impulsivity and aggression in adults with developmental disabilities.
Quick facts
| Phase | Not applicable |
|---|---|
| Study type | Interventional |
| Enrollment | 60 (estimated) |
| Ages | 18 Years to 65 Years |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | Queen's University Academic / other |
| Locations | 1 site (Kingston, Ontario) |
| Trial ID | NCT04732052 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this trial studies
This study evaluates the effectiveness of transcranial Direct Current Stimulation (tDCS) in reducing impulsivity and aggression in adults with developmental disabilities. It employs a randomized controlled trial design with 60 participants aged 18 to 65 who have a history of aggression. Participants will receive either active tDCS or a sham treatment across three sessions, with behavioral assessments conducted before, immediately after, and at one and four weeks post-treatment. The study aims to provide insights into the potential of non-invasive brain stimulation techniques for managing aggressive behaviors.
Who should consider this trial
Good fit: Ideal candidates are adults aged 18-64 with a developmental disability and a recent history of aggression.
Not a fit: Patients with a history of epilepsy, brain injury, or those with certain medical implants may not benefit from this study.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this approach could significantly reduce aggressive behaviors in individuals with developmental disabilities, improving their quality of life and interactions with others.
How similar studies have performed: While the use of tDCS is a relatively novel approach in this context, similar studies have shown promise in modulating impulsivity and aggression in other populations.
Eligibility criteria
Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria: * Adults aged 18-64 years * Diagnosis of a developmental disability * History of one or more incidents of aggression in the last month * Consent to participate in the trial by the individual or their Substitute Decision Maker Exclusion Criteria: * History of epilepsy or seizures * History of acquired brain injury * Having metal in the brain/skull, e.g. splinters, fragments or clips * Having a cochlear implant * Having an implanted neuro-stimulator (e.g. direct brain stimulation, epidural/subdural stimulation, vagal nerve stimulation) * History of brain surgery of procedure * History of severe adverse reaction to tDCS * Having a cardiac pacemaker or intracardiac lines * Current alcohol or drug misuse * Having a sensitive scalp
Where this trial is running
Kingston, Ontario
- Providence Care Hospital — Kingston, Ontario, Canada (Recruiting)
Study contacts
- Study coordinator: Najat Khalifa, MD
- Email: nrk2@queensu.ca
- Phone: +6135444900
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.