Using brain stimulation to reduce aggression in adults with developmental disabilities
Official title: 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
Run by Queen's University · NCT04732052 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is testing if a brain stimulation technique can help reduce impulsivity and aggression in adults with developmental disabilities.
Quick facts
| Study type | Interventional |
|---|---|
| Ages | 18 Years to 65 Years |
| Sex | All |
| Enrollment | 60 (estimated) |
| Sponsor | Queen's University Academic / other |
| Locations | 1 site (Kingston, Ontario) |
| Status | Recruiting |
| Started | September 1, 2022 |
| Main results expected | September 30, 2027 |
| Study ends | December 31, 2028 |
| Registry record updated | August 12, 2026 |
| Trial ID | NCT04732052 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
Is this trial a fit for you?
✓Likely a good fit
Ideal candidates are adults aged 18-64 with a developmental disability and a recent history of aggression.
✕Probably not a fit
Patients with a history of epilepsy, brain injury, or those with certain medical implants 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 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.
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 gone: 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.
Who can join: the full rules
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 it's running
-
Providence Care Hospital
Kingston, Ontario, Canada Recruiting
Study contacts
- Study coordinator: Najat Khalifa, MD
- Email: nrk2@queensu.ca
- Phone: +6135444900
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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.