Oregon Research Institute

An fMRI Test of the Dynamic Vulnerability Model of Obesity: Risk Factor Plasticity

The Chocolate Study

The research team is testing the dynamic vulnerability model of the emergence and escalation of overeating. The study should markedly advance understanding of the pathophysiology and neural plasticity that appears to give rise to obesity.

Details

This repeated measures brain imaging study will test the dynamic vulnerability model of the emergence and escalation of overeating by conducting repeated annual fMRI assessments with 130 lean adolescents over 4 years. Participants will complete a survey (consisting of various questionnaires that assess eating behaviors, diet, substance use, etc., an eating disorder diagnostic interview, height and weight, and 3 fMRI paradigms at baseline and 3 annual follow-up assessments.