RecruitingNot ApplicableNCT06274112

Using TMS to Understand Neural Processes of Social Motivation

Personalized Neuromodulation Targeting Dysregulated Motivational Responses Underlying Social Avoidance Behavior


Sponsor

Auburn University

Enrollment

40 participants

Start Date

Sep 30, 2025

Study Type

INTERVENTIONAL

Conditions

Summary

The purpose of this study is to use transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS) to better understand the neural circuits associated with social motivation. Participant includes four study visits each that range from 1.5 - 3.0 hours in duration over approximately a one month period. The first study visit involves answering survey questions, a clinical interview, and computer tasks. The second study visit involves a magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) scan, computer tasks, and a brief TMS protocol. The second and third study visits involve a full session of TMS followed by an MRI scan and computer tasks. Adults in the Auburn/Opelika area and surrounding areas who avoid social situations, experience symptoms of depression or social anxiety, and are between 25 years old and 50 years old are eligible to participate.


Eligibility

Min Age: 25 YearsMax Age: 50 Years

Plain Language Summary

Simplified for easier understanding

This study is using transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS) — a non-invasive technique that applies magnetic pulses to the brain — to understand how certain brain circuits influence the motivation to seek or avoid social interaction in people with major depression or social anxiety disorder. **You may be eligible if...** - You have a diagnosis of major depressive disorder or social anxiety disorder - You score above the clinical threshold for social avoidance **You may NOT be eligible if...** - You have changed your psychiatric medication or dosage in the past 3 months - You have a current or lifetime diagnosis of bipolar disorder - You have a diagnosis of a psychotic disorder such as schizophrenia - You have had a substance use disorder in the past 12 months - You are pregnant or may be pregnant - You have metal implants in your head or other conditions that make TMS unsafe Talk to your doctor to see if this trial is right for you.

This summary was AI-generated to explain the trial in plain language. It is not medical advice. Always discuss eligibility with your doctor before enrolling in a clinical trial.

Interested in this trial?

Get notified about updates and connect with the research team.

Interventions

DEVICETMS

TMS will be administered using a Cool B-65 coil to a personalized right dlPFC region.


Locations(1)

Auburn University

Auburn, Alabama, United States

View Full Details on ClinicalTrials.gov

For the most up-to-date information, visit the official listing.

Visit

NCT06274112


Related Trials