Brain scans may predict which kids respond to family therapy for depression
NCT ID NCT06289010
First seen Jul 20, 2026 · Last updated Jul 21, 2026 · Updated 1 time
Summary
This study compares brain activity and parenting styles in children aged 7-12 with and without depression. It then tests whether these factors can predict how well a child responds to a 12-session family-focused therapy designed to build positive interactions and coping skills. Participants undergo brain scans and complete questionnaires before and after treatment.
What this could mean
Our plain-language read of the trial. This is informational only — not medical advice or a prediction.
- Active substance
- Family-Focused Treatment for Childhood-Depression (FFT-CD) - a 12-session behavioral therapy involving families to build skills against depression.
- What this could lead to
- If successful, this could help identify which children with depression are most likely to benefit from family-focused therapy, leading to more personalized treatment.
- What could go wrong
- This is a small, early-stage open trial without a control group, so results may not be definitive or generalizable. The therapy may not work for all children.
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Conditions
The condition(s) this trial relates to.
As listed by the trial registrant
The condition terms exactly as the trial's registrant entered them.
Contacts and locations
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Study contacts
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Contact
Phone: •••-•••-•••• Email: •••••@•••••
Locations
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Athinoula A. Martinos Imaging Center at Massachusetts Institute of Technology
RECRUITINGCharlestown, Massachusetts, 02129, United States
Contact Phone: •••-•••-•••• Email: •••••@•••••
Contact
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Boston University
RECRUITINGBoston, Massachusetts, 02215, United States
Contact Phone: •••-•••-•••• Email: •••••@•••••
Contact
Contact Phone: •••-•••-•••• Email: •••••@•••••
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