Social Support for Stress in Children and Adolescents
Trial Summary
What is the purpose of this trial?
The purpose of this experiment is to determine the mechanisms through which parental buffering of stress physiology during aversive conditioning diminishes with pubertal development and whether this diminution of effectiveness extends to social buffering by peers (best friends) and/or other unfamiliar social partners (e.g., experimenters).
Will I have to stop taking my current medications?
If you are taking systemic glucocorticoids or beta-adrenergic medications, you cannot participate in this trial. The protocol does not specify about other medications.
What data supports the effectiveness of the treatment Social Buffering for stress in children and adolescents?
Research shows that social support, a key part of Social Buffering, can help reduce stress by affecting the body's stress response system, especially in children. Studies indicate that support from parents and peers can lower stress and improve mental health, suggesting that Social Buffering may be effective in managing stress in young people.12345
How does the treatment of social support for stress in children and adolescents differ from other treatments?
This treatment is unique because it focuses on providing social support from parents, peers, and classmates to help reduce stress and internalizing problems in children and adolescents. Unlike traditional treatments that might involve medication or therapy, this approach leverages the natural support systems around the child to buffer against stress and improve mental health outcomes.12346
Research Team
Megan Gunnar, PhD
Principal Investigator
University of Minnesota
Kathleen Thomas, PhD
Principal Investigator
University of Minnesota
Eligibility Criteria
This trial is for adolescents with normal hearing, vision, and language skills. It's not for those with autism, tattoos that interfere with MRI scans, severe claustrophobia, certain medications like beta-blockers or glucocorticoids, psychiatric or neurological disorders, serious medical conditions like cancer or organ transplants, pregnancy, congenital/chromosomal disorders (e.g., Down Syndrome), or metal implants/piercings/braces.Inclusion Criteria
Exclusion Criteria
Timeline
Screening
Participants are screened for eligibility to participate in the trial
Initial Assessment
Participants undergo a pubertal assessment exam, complete questionnaires, and experience a simulated MRI
Conditioning and MRI
Participants undergo MRI safety screening and complete aversive conditioning paradigms with different social partners
Follow-up
Participants are monitored for safety and effectiveness after the conditioning session
Treatment Details
Interventions
- Social Buffering
Find a Clinic Near You
Who Is Running the Clinical Trial?
University of Minnesota
Lead Sponsor