NCT07566468 · National Institute of Mental Health (NIMH)
Role of Theta Frequency Oscillations in Proactive and Reactive Control Processes in Youth With Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) and Obsessive Compulsive Disorder (OCD)
What this study is about
Background: Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is common in children. It can cause problems with attention and the ability to control actions and impulses. Obsessive compulsive disorder (OCD) is less common in children but not rare. It involves ongoing thoughts, urges, impulses, and repeated behaviors.
View original scientific description
Background: Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is common in children. It can cause problems with attention and the ability to control actions and impulses. Obsessive compulsive disorder (OCD) is less common in children but not rare. It involves ongoing thoughts, urges, impulses, and repeated behaviors. Researchers want to study differences in brain activity between healthy children, those with ADHD, and those with OCD. Objective: To learn more about how the brain controls thinking and behavior. Eligibility: People aged 10 to 17 years with ADHD, OCD, or neither. Design: Participants will have 3 to 10 clinic visits in up to 1 year. Each visit will last 2 to 3 hours. Three visits are required: Behavioral. Participants will complete a computer task. Their mood, memory, attention, and thinking skills will be tested. EEG. Participants will undergo electroencephalography (EEG) to measure signals in their brain. Small electrodes will be placed on the scalp. A cap will be stretched over the head. Signals will be recorded while participants rest or do tasks on a computer. MRI. Participants will have a magnetic resonance imaging scan (MRI). They will lie on a table that rolls into a tube. The MRI will take pictures of their brain while they do tasks on a computer. Seven more visits are optional. These include 2 more EEG visits and 2 more MRI visits. Three will be magnetoencephalography (MEG) visits: MEG measures small magnetic field changes in the brain. A helmet with sensors will be placed on the head. Brain changes will be recorded while participants rest or do tasks on a computer.
Primary outcome measures
Participant Retention for all visits of the study and task performance.
Time frame: At each visit
Withdrawal rates and Accuracy rates on task.
Adverse Events reported related to study procedures
Time frame: At each visit
Patient Reported Negative Side Effects
Percentage of EEG and fMRI data deemed to be of sufficient quality for analysis (e.g. without artifact or excessive motion).
Time frame: At time of assessment
Amount of analyzable data
Structural cortical region source localized from a combination of the EEG (and MEG in a subset of patients) and fMRI data
Time frame: At time of assessment
Location of brain activation
Who can participate
This study lists these criteria on ClinicalTrials.gov. A study coordinator reviews eligibility during screening — this page does not determine whether you qualify.
Inclusion criteria
- Ability to provide informed assent and parent consent
- Age: 10-17 years
- ADHD Group: Diagnosis of ADHD based on DSM-5 criteria OCD Group: Diagnosis of OCD based on DSM-5 criteria HV Group: No Neurological or Psychiatric diagnosis based on DSM-5 criteria
- Wechsler Abbreviated Scale of Intelligence, Second Edition (WASI-II). WASI-II will be used as a measure of intellectual function. Children will be included when FSIQ \> 70.
- Normal or corrected to normal vision
Exclusion criteria
- Participants will be screened to exclude participants in whom MRI or EEG might result in increased risk of side effects or complications or whose data would not be scientifically valid.
- Non-English Speakers
- Any implant, prosthesis or alteration of the body that, in the opinion of the investigator, would be unsafe with MRI or EEG or that would produce an artifact that would compromise the integrity of data;
- Active or History of psychosis, bipolar I disorder, Level 2 or 3 autism spectrum disorder, active severe substance use disorders (within the last month), have active suicidal intent or plan as detected on screening instruments;
- Individuals currently taking stimulant medications who cannot tolerate being off their medication for up to 48 hours prior to the study visit and experience an exacerbation of symptoms that necessitates the resumption of medication prior to completion of the study visit.
- Past or present medical or neurological condition, disease, disorder, genetic finding, or injury that, in the opinion of the Investigator, may significantly increase the potential risks of study participation, reduce or compromise a subject s ability to fully comply with all study requirements for the duration of the study or may compromise the integrity of the data.
- For the HV group, any impairing current psychiatric diagnosis.
Where
- Bethesda, Maryland
Related conditions & keywords
Frequently asked questions
What is a clinical trial?
A clinical trial is a research study that tests new medical treatments, drugs, devices, or procedures to determine their safety and effectiveness. Trials are carefully designed and monitored to protect participants while advancing medical knowledge.
Is it safe to participate?
Clinical trials follow strict safety guidelines and ethical standards. Trials must be reviewed and approved, and participants are closely monitored by medical professionals throughout the study. You can withdraw at any time if you choose.
Will I be compensated?
Many clinical trials offer compensation for your time, travel expenses, and inconvenience. The specific compensation varies by study and will be discussed during the screening process. All study-related medical care is typically provided at no cost to participants.
Will I receive a placebo instead of treatment?
When effective treatment exists, participants typically receive either the standard treatment plus the study intervention, or the standard treatment plus placebo. You would not be denied effective care. Placebos are primarily used when no proven treatment is available, or in addition to standard care. Your trial consent form will clearly explain what treatments you may receive.
Can I leave a trial if I change my mind?
Absolutely. Participation in clinical trials is completely voluntary. You have the right to withdraw from the study at any time, for any reason, without penalty or loss of benefits to which you are otherwise entitled.
How long does a clinical trial last?
Trial duration varies widely depending on the study design and purpose. Some trials last just a few weeks, while others may continue for months or years. The study coordinator will provide specific timeline information during your screening call.
Data: ClinicalTrials.gov · synced Oct 5, 2026 · Source of record for eligibility and locations