Two major components of posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) symptoms are heightened emotional responses to threat and diminished ability to experience positive emotions in response to positive or rewarding experiences. The way in which the brain systems underlying threat and reward processing interact and influence one another to result in these emotional disturbances in PTSD is currently unknown.
The goal of this study is to understand how neurocircuitry function underlying threat and reward processing is impacted by the development of PTSD and how these functional changes relate to PTSD symptoms of hypervigilance to threat and diminished experience of positive emotions.
Individuals in this study undergo clinical/behavioral assessment and functional and structural neuroimaging while completing a battery of tasks that assess the brain's responses to pleasant and rewarding stimuli while safe from threat and under threat of electrodermal shock. We are recruiting adults, ages 21-50, that have experienced a traumatic event and are either currently having post-traumatic stress symptoms or are resilient and mentally healthy. The data collection and procedures for this study take place at the Health Discovery Building on the Dell Medical School campus. Volunteers are able to assist with all aspects of the study process, from recruitment to data collection to data analysis and interpretation.
Motivated, dedicated, and reliable volunteers are desired. Prior research experience is a plus, but is not required. Must be willing to dedicate at least 4 hours a week for at least 6 months.
This project is currently collecting data and will be ongoing for the next 2 years.
Assist with recruitment of study subjects through distributing flyers and online ads.
Assist with collection of data at the MRI scanner.
Assist with duties related to data analysis and data cleaning.
Other duties may be provided commensurate with the volunteer's degree of commitment and aptitude.
