Characterizing the Effects of Social Disconnection in Young People
About the study: Social connections are a basic human need, yet many people, especially teenagers, experience loneliness at times. In this brain-imaging study, we’re exploring how social disconnection affects the brain, with a focus on how people process rewards and regulate their emotions. By taking part, you’ll be helping us better understand the neural mechanisms loneliness and its links to mental health, with the goal of improving support in the future.
We are looking for adolescents aged 12-19 years old
Study plan:
Participation involves 3 visits to CUBRIC:
– a brief screening interview,
– two MRI scans, one of which includes spending some time alone. The duration of this alone time is 2 hours for those aged 12–15, and 3 hours for those aged 16–19.
Pay: £20 for each MRI scan, £10 per hour for the isolation behavioural session, an additional £2.50–£10 depending on task performance, and a completion bonus of £10–£20 once all sessions are finished.
Developing Social Minds Lab 