NCT06115252 · UConn Health
Partnering to Enhance Emerging Adults' Response to Programs
(PEER)
What this study is about
The goal of this clinical trial (CT) is to learn more about emerging adults' and their peers. Here, we will see how co-participating with a peer in health program might impact brain and behavior change over time. Eligible youth will be invited to come in for a "Participation Day," during which they and a peer will independently complete questionnaires.
View original scientific description
The goal of this clinical trial (CT) is to learn more about emerging adults' and their peers. Here, we will see how co-participating with a peer in health program might impact brain and behavior change over time. Eligible youth will be invited to come in for a "Participation Day," during which they and a peer will independently complete questionnaires. With a peer, they will then complete a short health program, and undergo a brain scan (fMRI) while completing activities. Our study team will reach out to each participant individually again 3, 6, and 12 months later to learn about health behaviors over time.
Interventions
BEHAVIORAL
Motivational Interviewing (MI)
Motivational interviewing with peer dyads starts with an open-ended exploration of the dyad's hazardous drinking behavior via personal stories about alcohol use. It includes a values clarification task and age-matched norms along with personalized feedback regarding the dyad's alcohol use. The goal of the session is to engage the dyad in a thoughtful conversation about drinking and the implications it may have on their lives, with an eye to bolstering and supporting inherent drive for behavior change.
Primary outcome measures
Blood oxygen level dependent (BOLD) response synchrony
Time frame: Baseline
Mean BOLD time series will be obtained for each region of interest (ROI) during peer-directed change talk trials and temporally aligned across dyad participants. Inter-brain synchrony will be quantified using z-transformed GLM β-weights within ROIs between the BOLD time series of dyad members.
BOLD response synchrony association with behavior change (past month alcohol use days)
Time frame: 12 Months
Pearson correlation coefficients (r) of Primary Outcome #1 (ROI z-scores representing BOLD response synchrony) with individual Timeline Followback (TLFB) past month drinking days at 12 month 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
- within the specified age range
- agree to be contacted for the 3, 6, and 12 month follow ups
- provide fully informed consent
Exclusion criteria
- left-handed
- evidence of brain injury/illness and/or neurological, neurodevelopmental disorder including psychosis and related medications (e.g., antipsychotics; neuroleptics)
- loss of consciousness ≥ 2 minutes
- other fMRI contraindications (e.g., unremovable metal on/in body, pregnant)
Where
- Dallas, Texas
Collaborators
University of Texas, National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism (NIAAA)
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 Feb 10, 2026 · Source of record for eligibility and locations