NCT06283472 · Indiana University
Enhancing Prospective Thinking in Early Recovery (BEAM)
(BEAM)
What this study is about
The goal of this clinical trial is to test the prosocial effects of personally-relevant, high-intensity episodic future-thinking (EFT) cues in alcohol use disorder persons and related brain mechanisms.
View original scientific description
The goal of this clinical trial is to test the prosocial effects of personally-relevant, high-intensity episodic future-thinking (EFT) cues in alcohol use disorder persons and related brain mechanisms. The main question\[s\] this trial aims to answer are: * Will high-intensity EFT cues will produce greater delayed reward preference than low-intensity cues? * Will high-intensity EFT cues effect greater treatment-seeking interest? * Will high-intensity EFT cues elicit greater response in regions for prospective thinking during delay discounting (vs. low-intensity) * Will nucleus accumbens-precuneus resting connectivity correlate with behavioral SS? * Will the novel behavioral SS decision-making task activate the nucleus accumbens? Researchers will compare the experimental (high-intensity group) and control (low-intensity) groups to see if there are differences in the results for the questions outlined above.
Interventions
BEHAVIORAL
High-Intensity Cue
Participants in the high-intensity group will receive high-intensity image cues that represent self-reported events they did on the previous day and self-reported events they look forward to in the future.
BEHAVIORAL
Low-Intensity Cue
Participants in the low-intensity group will receive low-intensity image cues that represent self-reported events they did on the previous day and self-reported events they look forward to in the future.
Primary outcome measures
Increase Prospective Thinking
Time frame: Study Day Visit (Day 1)
High-intensity episodic future-thinking image cues will change prospective thinking.
Delayed Rewards
Time frame: Study Day Visit (Day 1)
High-intensity episodic future-thinking image cues will change preference for delayed rewards, which will be measured using a behavioral delayed discounting task.
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
- Individuals who meet current heavy drinking (≥2 heavy drinking days/month OR ≥7 drinks/week for biological females, and ≥14 drinks/week if biological male \[NIAAA definition\] and/or AUDIT scores ≥8)
- English comprehension
Exclusion criteria
- Unstable medical disorders
- Outside the age range of 18-60
- Smell/taste disorders
- Unstable psychiatric conditions
Where
- Indianapolis, Indiana
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 Jan 7, 2026 · Source of record for eligibility and locations