Impulsivity Project
Overview
The primary objective of this study will be to compare a sample of obese to healthy-weight adolescents using both behavioral and neuroscientific measures of impulsivity and attentional control. Findings from this research may reveal specific targets of emphasis that can be used to modify existing prevention and treatment interventions to make them more effective for at-risk individuals.
Impulsivity Study Participants
The goal of this study is to enhance research that may reveal specific brain targets of impulsivity that can be used to modify existing prevention and treatment interventions to help adolescents better self-regulate.
Study Details
During the lab visit participants will complete several questionnaires regarding eating behavior and personality characteristics, as well as complete some puzzle and game-like exercises on a computer while wearing a “sensor net” that records brain activity.
All information collected is confidential and will only be shared with research staff. The lab session will last a total of two hours. Participants will receive a $30 Amazon gift card and will be able to take a photo with the EEG net on to make for a great lab experience.
If you or your child (between 13 and 19 years of age) are interested in participating in the study, contact our Project Manager.
Map & Directions
Frequently Asked Questions
Who will be involved in the study and what do we need to do?
Both the parent and adolescent will be involved in this study. We will only ask parents to sign the consent form and complete three questionnaires on family habits.
The adolescent will need to sign a consent form as well as complete several questionnaires regarding eating behavior and personality characteristics. See the participant information above for more information.
What is required of parents in this experiment?
We will ask the parent to come with the adolescent to the NLD lab which is located at Harrington Building 715A, Texas A&M University during the appointment time. While the adolescent is doing their tasks, the parent can finish their questionnaires in the waiting area outside the NLD lab. We advise the parent to bring a book, magazine, or laptop since the entire procedure may take 2 hours while competing the parent-questionnaires should be finished in a short amount of time.
If, for convenience (and to save parking hassles), the parent prefers not to stay in the lab during the experiment, the parent can sign the consent form before the experiment starts and take the package of questionnaires. The package can be handed to the research assistant later (for example, when picking up the adolescent).
Please also discuss this option with the person who will book your appointment on the phone.
Is this experiment harmful?
No, the EEG experiment is a safe, painless, non-invasive procedure. The technique is even used on infants. Having recording sponges place on your skin, however, may feel strange. The sensors only record activity like a thermometer. The EEG is only able to measure very general brain activity is not capable of reading a person’s thoughts.
How do I prepare for the experiment?
You need to wash your hair the night before the testing. We will ask you to not use any oils, sprays, or conditioner on your hair before the testing. These may reduce the quality of our recordings.
What happens to my experiment data?
Your data will remain confidential and be only used for research purpose. Any personal information that could identify you will be replaced with codes. Your identifying information will not be shared with others outside this research study.
Can this research help participants with their issues?
No, you are helping your community and country create a better understanding of some of the issues adolescents face. This experiment is not a ‘therapy’.