Inducing Self-Dehumanization to Examine Oxytocin and Suicide Risk (NCT06710964)
🩺 Plain-English Summary (8th-Grade Level)
The goal of this experiment is to further determine if self-dehumanization is a novel risk factor for suicide. This study will induce self-dehumanization using a novel experimental self-dehumanized future condition (i.e., a futuristic paradigm that likens the individual to a machine) and compare this group to a control group to analyze the pathway between higher perceptions of self-dehumanization, suicidal ideation, and changes in oxytocin concentrations. It is hypothesized that participants randomly assigned to the self-dehumanized mechanistic future condition will exhibit temporary increases in suicidal ideation (which will be thoroughly assessed, intervened upon following the induction) and decreases in oxytocin concentrations as compared to the control condition, which will not display significant changes. Further, we will explore if the magnitude of the oxytocin response will partially mediate the change in suicidal ideation.
Who can join: To join this study, participants generally need to meet the listed inclusion criteria (3 items) and avoid the listed exclusions (5 items).
Location: Florida State University — Tallahassee, Florida
📋 "Do I Qualify?" — 1-Minute Self Screener
Instant ChecklistCheck every box below. If you can check all of them, you may meet the study's basic screening requirements (final eligibility is confirmed by the site team).
Usually NOT eligible if any of the following apply:
- Exclusion Criteria:
- A phobia of needles (i.e., Trypanophobia)
- Any medical conditions precluding them from engaging in a 10-hour fast (consumption of water is allowed and encouraged)
- Life-threatening suicide risk which would result in taking appropriate steps to ensure safety of the individual (e.g., hospitalization)
- A psychosis-related diagnosis
🔍 Extracted verbatim from the official NIH eligibility criteria. Always confirm with the study coordinator.
📍 All Participating Trial Locations (1 Sites)
- Florida State University — Tallahassee, Florida
💰 Cost, Insurance & Patient Rights
- 100% Free Items: The investigational treatment and protocol-required procedures are supplied at zero cost by the sponsor.
- Routine Patient Care: Under federal law (ACA § 2709) and many state statutes, routine care costs are covered during participation.
- Voluntary Participation: You may withdraw at any time without affecting your standard medical care.