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NCT04788524 · Mclean Hospital

Neural Correlates of Stress and Perceived Control in Adolescent Depression

What this study is about

Lack of perceived control, particularly during stress, has been critically implicated in major depressive disorder (MDD) and anhedonic symptoms, especially among female adolescents; yet the neural underpinnings of perceived control disruptions in MDD remain poorly understood.

View original scientific description

Lack of perceived control, particularly during stress, has been critically implicated in major depressive disorder (MDD) and anhedonic symptoms, especially among female adolescents; yet the neural underpinnings of perceived control disruptions in MDD remain poorly understood. Using functional magnetic resonance imaging with a novel "value of control task" in conjunction with a prospective design, this study will provide a comprehensive understanding of stress and perceived control related mechanisms in female adolescents with MDD and will examine stress-induced disruptions in perceived control as a predictor of "real world" expressions of maladaptive coping and anhedonia.

Interventions

BEHAVIORAL

Computer Task Manipulation

Participants will complete computer tasks.

Primary outcome measures

Blood-Oxygen-Level-Dependent Imaging (BOLD) activation of the ventral striatum and ventral medial prefrontal cortex

Time frame: 1.5 hour long scan during session 2

BOLD activation of frontostriatal regions in response to computer tasks performed during the fMRI Brian scan

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

  • Females of all ethnic origins See Section: Inclusion of Women and Minorities);
  • Ages 14-18 (See Section: Inclusion of Children);
  • Written informed assent/consent from adolescent and parent/guardian (if under age 18);
  • English as a first language or English fluency;
  • Right handed111;
  • Personal cell-phone (for Ecological Momentary Assessment \[EMA\]) 7 All participants will be in the follicular phase of their menstrual cycle when completing the functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI) study session Inclusion Criteria: MDD Sample
  • Meet Diagnostic Statistical Manual-5th edition (DSM-5) diagnostic criteria for major depressive disorder (as diagnosed with the KSADS)
  • Absence of any psychotropic medications for at least 2 weeks (6 weeks for fluoxetine; 6 months for neuroleptics; 2 weeks for benzodiazepines; 2 weeks for any other antidepressants); Inclusion Criteria: Healthy Control (HC) Sample
  • No history or current diagnosis of any DSM-5 psychiatric or substance/alcohol-related disorder (as diagnosed with the KSADS)
  • No first-degree relatives with a history of depression, bipolar disorder, or psychosis

Exclusion criteria

  • History of head trauma with loss of consciousness;
  • History of seizure disorder;
  • Serious or unstable medical illness including cardiovascular, hepatic, renal, respiratory, endocrine, neurologic or hematologic disease;
  • History of cocaine or stimulant use (e.g., amphetamine, cocaine, methamphetamine);
  • History of use of dopaminergic drugs (including methylphenidate);
  • Use of hormonal replacement therapy, anabolic steroids, or hormonal contraception;
  • Clinical or laboratory evidence of hypothyroidism;
  • Systemic medical or neurological illness that could impact fMRI measures of cerebral blood flow;
  • Failure to meet standard exclusion criteria for fMRI scanning (e.g., claustrophobia, cardiac pacemakers, neural pacemakers, surgically implanted metal devices, cochlear implants, metal braces, or other metal objects in the body);
  • Testing positive on a drug test on the day of the scan which testis for stimulants, marijuana, barbiturates, benzodiazepine, buprenorphine, 3,4-Methyl enedioxy methamphetamine (MDMA), methadone, opiates, oxycodone, phencyclidine;
  • History of electroconvulsive therapy
  • Participants with suicidal ideation where study participation is deemed unsafe by the study clinician; Additional Exclusion Criteria: Major Depressive Disorder (MDD) Sample 1\. Major depressive disorder diagnosis secondary to another disorder (selected comorbid anxiety disorders such as generalized anxiety disorder, specific phobia, and social anxiety disorders are allowed if they are secondary to MDD)

Where

  • Belmont, Massachusetts

Related conditions & keywords

Major Depressive Disorderstressperceived controlneuroimagingdepression

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 May 19, 2026 · Source of record for eligibility and locations

📊
1 of 80 participants interested
1% interest

See if this study fits

A short prescreen based on this study's listed criteria. A coordinator confirms eligibility — this is not a medical assessment.

Preparing your pre-screening questions…

Study locations

Choose your preferred location, or select flexible during enrollment.

RECRUITING

Belmont

Massachusetts

Location available

Express your interest

Share your contact details and a study coordinator can follow up about screening.

Secure & Confidential

Your information is protected and will only be shared with the research team.

What participation can include

  • Study-related care provided by the research team
  • Close monitoring by medical professionals
  • Possible compensation for time and travel*
  • The option to withdraw at any time
  • Contributing to medical research that may help future patients

*Compensation varies by study. Confirm details with coordinator.

Typical next steps

  1. 1.Submit this form
  2. 2.Phone screening
  3. 3.In-person assessment if eligible
  4. 4.Begin participation

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Looking for Major Depressive Disorder Treatment in Belmont?

Join others in Massachusetts exploring innovative treatment options through clinical research

Major Depressive Disorder Treatment Options in Belmont, Massachusetts

If you're searching for Major Depressive Disorder treatment in Belmont, participating in a clinical research study may provide access to innovative approaches under expert medical supervision. This study is actively recruiting participants in Belmont and surrounding areas.

Clinical trials offer participants the opportunity to receive cutting-edge treatments while contributing to medical research that may help future patients with Major Depressive Disorder. All study-related care is provided at no cost to participants.

Local Sites
1 locations in Massachusetts
Now Enrolling
Up to 80 participants
Quick Start
Screening available now

Why Consider a Clinical Trial for Major Depressive Disorder?

Potential Benefits

  • Access to new treatment approaches before public availability
  • Close monitoring by experienced medical professionals
  • Study-related care provided at no cost
  • Contribute to medical research for Major Depressive Disorder

What to Expect

  • Initial screening to determine eligibility
  • Regular check-ups and monitoring visits
  • Possible compensation for time and travel
  • You can withdraw at any time

Frequently Asked Questions About This Major Depressive Disorder Study

Important Clinical Trial Information

This information is provided for educational purposes and does not constitute medical advice. Clinical trial participation involves potential risks and benefits. Eligibility requirements apply and will be assessed during the screening process.

Study identifier: NCT04788524. For complete study details, visit ClinicalTrials.gov. Always consult with your healthcare provider before making decisions about your medical care or participating in clinical research.