Mind over matter: brain training may unlock Self-Motivation

NCT ID NCT05929898

Recruiting now Knowledge-focused Sponsor: Duke University Source: ClinicalTrials.gov ↗

First seen Jul 10, 2026 · Last updated Jul 10, 2026

Summary

This study investigates whether healthy adults can learn to self-regulate motivation by watching their own brain activity in real time using fMRI. Participants will receive neurofeedback from a key motivation region (the VTA) while practicing motivational imagery. The goal is to understand how the brain controls motivation and memory, which could inform future therapies for conditions like depression or ADHD.

What this could mean

Our plain-language read of the trial. This is informational only — not medical advice or a prediction.

Active substance: fMRI neurofeedback training
What this could lead to: If successful, this could point toward new ways to help people improve motivation and self-control without medication.
What could go wrong: This is an early-stage observational study with no treatment being tested. The findings may not translate into practical applications or work for everyone.

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Conditions

The condition(s) this trial relates to.

Self-Control

As listed by the trial registrant

The condition terms exactly as the trial's registrant entered them.

MEMORY MOTIVATION SELF-REGULATION

Contacts and locations

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Study contacts

Contact

Phone: •••-•••-•••• Email: •••••@•••••
Contact

Phone: •••-•••-•••• Email: •••••@•••••

Locations

Center for Cognitive Neuroscience
RECRUITING

Durham, North Carolina, 27708, United States

Contact Phone: •••-•••-•••• Email: •••••@•••••

Contact Phone: •••-•••-•••• Email: •••••@•••••

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