fMRI-NF modulation of self-blame in MDD.
Research type
Research Study
Full title
Using functional MRI neurofeedback to modulate self-blame in major depressive disorder.
IRAS ID
308863
Contact name
James Stone
Contact email
Sponsor organisation
University of Sussex
Duration of Study in the UK
2 years, 4 months, 1 days
Research summary
Major depressive disorder (MDD) is a debilitating condition that is often considered to be the most common cause of disability in the world. Previous research has identified that feelings of low self-worth are a central feature of MDD symptoms. Unfortunately, many current treatments for MDD do not address low self-worth specifically, and this might result in patients not responding as well as they could.
Consequently, it would be beneficial to further investigate which areas of the brain are responsible for regulating excessive self-blaming emotions, in order to develop more targeted therapies and prognostic tools for managing the disorder.
In this study, we aim to use a brain-scanning technique called ‘fMRI neurofeedback’ with MDD patients to try to change their brain activity in these identified areas towards a more healthy pattern. During neurofeedback, participants will be asked to try to raise the level of a thermometer graphic that is presented to them on a screen. The level of the thermometer represents brain activity in a specific brain region that we have identified as being associated with feelings of low self-worth. Participants will learn by trial-and-error which ways of thinking help to increase the level of the thermometer. It is our hope that, in the 'active' group, higher thermometer levels will be associated with improved feelings of self-worth.
We will also ask participants to complete some questionnaires and undergo some clinical / psychological assessments with a trained researcher to assess whether participant's thoughts and feelings are influenced by the neurofeedback intervention.
This project will also form part of an academic qualification (PhD).
REC name
London - Brighton & Sussex Research Ethics Committee
REC reference
22/LO/0270
Date of REC Opinion
20 May 2022
REC opinion
Further Information Favourable Opinion