NCT07385027 · Spaulding Rehabilitation Hospital
Linked Outcomes in Various EEG-Hyperscanning Setups
(LOVEH)
What this study is about
The goal of this observational study is to investigate how brains of healthy controls respond when they interact with their romantic partner compared to when they interact with a stranger. The main goals are: * Explore how two people's brains interact with each other by recording brain activity at the same time (a method called "hyperscanning") using electroencephalography (EEG).
View original scientific description
The goal of this observational study is to investigate how brains of healthy controls respond when they interact with their romantic partner compared to when they interact with a stranger. The main goals are: * Explore how two people's brains interact with each other by recording brain activity at the same time (a method called "hyperscanning") using electroencephalography (EEG). Using hyperscanning, this study will compare brain-to-brain communication in romantic couples versus strangers, both when they are together in person and when they are interacting remotely. * Test a computational model that will help explain how this brain-to-brain communication works, using real data from the brain activity EEG recordings. * Explore whether factors such as age, gender, how aware people are of their own body sensations, and their level of attachment influence brain-to-brain communication. Researchers will compare brain-to-brain communication in romantic couples versus strangers, both when they are together in person and when they are interacting remotely to see which factors effect brain-to-brain communication. Enrolled participants will: * Complete a consent visit with their romantic partner where they will sign a consent form and have their pain sensitivity assessed. * Fill out sets of questionnaires assessing their romantic relationship, their personality, and other traits. * Complete two EEG scans, one with their romantic partner and one with a stranger. At both scans they will conduct a pain task, a communication task, and a light stimulation task.
Primary outcome measures
Inter-Brain Connectivity (IBC)
Time frame: 1 year
Brain to brain connectivity (or IBC) estimated on EEG-hyperscan data acquired simultaneously from two people (either romantic partners or strangers). The investigators hypothesize that IBC (density of connections): * will be modulated by the level of attachment (factor 1) regardless of subjects proximity (same room versus separate rooms, factor 2). * will be stronger during communication task and empathy for pain compared to resting state. * will be affected by demographical factors including age, sex, and race.
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
- Healthy volunteers in a romantic partnership for at least 6 months.
- 20-60 years of age
- Ability to fully understand and consent to study procedures.
- Fluent in English
- Are on stable doses of medication for 30 days prior to entering the study and agree not to change medications or dosages during the trial.
Exclusion criteria
- Presence of any contraindications to EEG scanning.
- Illicit drug or opioid use.
- Epilepsy, seizures provoked by lights or a prior history of seizures.
- Presence of any illness that is judged to interfere with the trial. For example: severe psychiatric disorders according to the DSM-IV manual.
- Current chronic pain conditions.
- Unwillingness to be audio recorded.
- Unwillingness to receive brief experimental pain on the lower left leg.
- Unwillingness to withhold from consuming marijuana 48 hours prior to scans.
- Unwillingness to withhold from consuming nicotine 4 hours prior to scans.
- Any impairment, activity, or situation that in the judgment of the Study Coordinator or Principal Investigator would prevent satisfactory completion of the study protocol.
Where
- Charlestown, Massachusetts
Collaborators
Université de Montréal, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Emerald Gate Charitable Trust
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 3, 2026 · Source of record for eligibility and locations