Social Safety Learning in the Brain Oxytocin System

08 Jun Social Safety Learning in the Brain Oxytocin System

This study will investigate how oxytocin (a naturally-occurring hormone in the body) may be related to social and cognitive functioning. This in-person study requires one visit, lasting 4-5 hours, located at the University of Washington campus and the University of Washington Medical Center. You will be compensated $80-$100 for completing this study.

In this study, we will give you a nasal spray containing either oxytocin or placebo and then ask you to complete a social learning task that involves receiving mild electric shocks while in an MRI scanner. Additionally, this study involves a diagnostic interview and self-report questionnaires.

We are closely following safety procedures in this study and will thoroughly review the risks of participating with you. You will also be given a copy of the informed consent before participating to provide enough time to review the information and help you decide if you would like to participate.

You can find out more information about this study here: https://www.uwconnectlab.com/participate/narsad-2/

Participant Eligibility

ALL SUBJECTS:
– Age 18-45
– Primary diagnosis of social anxiety disorder OR healthy volunteer
– No history of serious medical illness: cardiovascular disease, neurological disorders, untreated endocrine disorders, or nasal pathology
– No non-removable metal in or on the body (metal implants, braces, non-removable piercings, metal IUDs, microblading)
– No current use of steroids, hormonal medication, or psychotropic medications
– Not currently in therapy
– Must be willing to avoid alcohol, nicotine, or caffeine for 24 hours prior to scan

ALL FEMALE SUBJECTS:
– No current use of hormonal birth control
– Not currently pregnant or breastfeeding
– No irregular menstrual cycle (outside 25-35-day window)

Contact

Maggie Sarkisova
(206) 221-1278