NCT07125534 · University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign
Alcohol and the Social Brain: An Alcohol-Administration Hyperscanning Study Employing a Within-Subject Design
What this study is about
The study investigates the effects of alcohol consumption on social and individual behaviors using a within-subject design. Participants, aged 21-30, will attend two laboratory sessions approximately one week apart, participating as part of a dyad (pair).
View original scientific description
The study investigates the effects of alcohol consumption on social and individual behaviors using a within-subject design. Participants, aged 21-30, will attend two laboratory sessions approximately one week apart, participating as part of a dyad (pair). During one session, they will consume an alcoholic beverage, while in the other, they will receive a control beverage, with the order of conditions randomized. This design facilitates direct within-participant comparisons of behaviors and neural activity in intoxicated versus sober states. To achieve these aims, the study employs EEG technology to explore intra-brain and inter-brain dynamics during social interactions. Additionally, validated self-report questionnaires will capture data on mood, social bonding, and other psychological variables. The findings are expected to enhance understanding of alcohol's role in social reward processes and contribute to developing evidence-based prevention and intervention strategies for alcohol use disorder.
Interventions
DRUG
Alcohol beverage
This intervention involves the administration of an alcohol beverage (vodka mixed with juice or soda) in a controlled laboratory setting, targeting a blood alcohol concentration (BAC) of 0.08%. The alcohol is consumed over a 36-minute period in three equal parts.
OTHER
Control - non alcoholic beverage
This intervention involves the administration of a non-alcoholic control beverage in a controlled laboratory setting. The beverage is matched in volume and palatability to the alcohol condition but co
Primary outcome measures
Inter-brain entrainment
Time frame: During active laboratory beverage manipulation exposure (during or immediately after beverage administration, at which time participants in the alcohol condition will register a positive BAC)
Synchronization metrics (e.g., inter-subject PLV, inter-subject correlation) between paired participants, assessed separately in sober and intoxicated conditions
Intra-brain entrainment
Time frame: During active laboratory beverage manipulation exposure (during or immediately after beverage administration, at which time participants in the alcohol condition will register a positive BAC)
The comparison of EEG signal synchronization within the same participant across the alcohol and non-alcohol conditions, reflecting intra-brain activity changes due to alcohol consumption during the hyperscanning task.
Event-Related Potentials (ERP)
Time frame: During active laboratory beverage manipulation exposure (during or immediately after beverage administration, at which time participants in the alcohol condition will register a positive BAC)
Feedback-Related Negativity (FRN), measured both for the operating ("player") and observing ("observer") participant, with comparisons across sobriety conditions
Ambulatory Drinking
Time frame: 14 days
Drinking behavior assessed outside the laboratory using ambulatory assessment
Longitudinal Drinking Problems
Time frame: Up to 24 months post-baseline
Drinking assessed at longitudinal follow-up
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
- Between the ages of 21 and 30
- Regularly consumes alcohol
Exclusion criteria
- History of adverse reaction to the amount of beverage employed in the study
- Have a history of major problems associated with alcohol
- Take medications that could adversely interact with alcohol
- Have medical conditions that contraindicate alcohol administration
- Individuals with a history of skull fractures or who indicate discomfort with EEG procedures used
- Female participant is pregnant or trying to become pregnant
Where
- Champaign, Illinois
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 Aug 29, 2025 · Source of record for eligibility and locations