Brain scans reveal why you choke under pressure

NCT ID NCT03929289

First seen Jun 24, 2026 · Last updated Jun 26, 2026 · Updated 1 time

Summary

This study looks at why people perform differently when others are watching. Using brain scans, researchers measured eye movements and attention in 43 healthy adults while they were observed by a friend or alone. The goal is to uncover the brain mechanism behind social facilitation.

What this could mean

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

What this could lead to

If successful, this could help explain why people perform better or worse when watched, potentially improving learning and work environments.

What could go wrong

This is a small, early-stage study with only 43 participants, focused on understanding a basic psychological process. It does not test any treatment or intervention.

Disclaimer Read more

This is a summary of the original study . Summaries may miss details or leave out important information. Before applying or accepting participation, make sure you have read and understood the full study. Curemydisease.com takes no responsibility whatsoever for anything missed, misunderstood, or acted upon as a result of our summary — we know it does not capture everything.

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Conditions

The condition(s) this trial relates to.

Social Facilitation

As listed by the trial registrant

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

Contacts and locations

Locations

  • Centre de Recherche en Neuroscience de Lyon

    Bron, 69500, France