Can a hug from a loved one erase fear? UCLA scientists investigate

NCT ID NCT04166071

First seen Nov 01, 2025 · Last updated May 16, 2026 · Updated 30 times

Summary

This study looks at how reminders of supportive people help the brain unlearn fear. Healthy adults aged 18-35 will receive either naltrexone or a placebo before a fear-extinction task. The goal is to see if blocking certain brain chemicals stops social support from reducing fear. Results may improve treatments for anxiety and phobias.

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Contacts and locations

Locations

  • UCLA

    Los Angeles, California, 90095, United States

  • UCLA Department of Psychology, 5514 Pritzker Hall

    Los Angeles, California, 90095-1563, United States

Conditions

Explore the condition pages connected to this study.