This study is looking at how people handle stress during performance tasks and if a non-invasive ear device called Transcutaneous Vagus Nerve Stimulation (tVNS) can help. You would be randomly assigned to receive either active tVNS or a sham (inactive) version. You'd also be assigned to either prepare a speech under stressful conditions or complete a non-stressful writing task. Researchers will measure your self-reported stress levels before and after the task to see if tVNS makes a difference. The study aims to enroll 200 adults between 18 and 65 years old who are fluent in English and have no history of neurological or psychiatric disorders, cardiovascular disease, or implanted electrical devices. The current status of the study is unclear.

Study design

This is a randomized, double-blind interventional study with 200 planned participants. You would be randomly assigned to one of four groups: active tVNS with a stress task, active tVNS with a control task, sham tVNS with a stress task, or sham tVNS with a control task.

What's involved

You would participate in a single laboratory session where you wear a tVNS device and a heart rate monitor. You would also complete short questionnaires about your feelings before and after a task.

Compensation

Not stated in the trial record.

Follow-up

Your self-reported stress will be measured at baseline (pre-task) and immediately post-task during a single laboratory session.

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