Teens' brains scanned while using social media: a window into depression?

NCT ID NCT06817993

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

First seen Jun 25, 2026 · Last updated Jun 27, 2026 · Updated 1 time

Summary

This study aims to create a more realistic brain-scan task that mimics social media interactions, like getting likes or comments. Researchers will scan the brains of 60 teens with depressive symptoms while they receive virtual peer feedback. The goal is to see how brain activity relates to their real-world social media use and mood over time.

What this could mean

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

Active substance: fMRI task with peer feedback (acceptance/rejection)
What this could lead to: If successful, this could provide a better understanding of how social media impacts teen mental health, potentially guiding future interventions.
What could go wrong: This is an early-stage, small study (60 teens) focused on developing a task, not testing a treatment. Results may not apply broadly or lead to direct benefits.

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Conditions

The condition(s) this trial relates to.

Depression depressive disorder Social Isolation

As listed by the trial registrant

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

DEPRESSION

Contacts and locations

Locations

University of Pittsburgh
RECRUITING

Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, 15213, United States

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