This study is testing a new way to reduce fear in people with phobias (like fear of spiders or snakes). It uses a method called Unconscious Neuro-reinforcement, which involves real-time brain activity monitoring (fMRI) to help your brain unconsciously reduce fear responses. This approach aims to avoid the distress often caused by traditional treatments that require you to face your fears directly. We are looking for 60 participants between 18 and 65 years old who have normal vision and hearing, can understand consent, and have a specific animal phobia. Success will be measured by changes in brain activity related to fear and how much fear you report feeling after the treatment, both measured after 14 days. The current recruitment status is unclear.

Study design

This is an interventional study with a planned enrollment of 60 participants. It uses a double-blind, placebo-controlled design, meaning neither you nor the researchers will know if you are receiving the active treatment or a placebo.

What's involved

You will complete an implicit fMRI neuro-reinforcement task where your brain activity is matched to a desired activation. You will also receive financial rewards for achieving the desired brain activation.

Compensation

You will receive financial reward for activating the desired activation.

Follow-up

Your brain activity and subjective fear levels will be measured again 14 days after the treatment.

AI-generated from the public study record. Only the study team can confirm whether you're eligible — confirm details with them before making decisions.