MRIs
What is an MRI?
An MRI (Magnetic Resonance Image) machine takes high-resolution images of the brain using strong a magnet. An MRI machine is a large, tube-shaped magnet and is a safe, non-invasive way to collect photos of the brain.
Are MRIs safe?
Yes! MRI scans are a very safe way to collect images and do not use radiation.
The main safety concern with MRIs pertains to metal objects, both in and on the body. We conduct a thorough screening prior to study enrollment to ensure that you are safe to enter the scanner. Additionally, we follow safety protocol prior to the scan to ensure that you and all team members are metal-free and safe to enter the scanner room.
What is it like to get an MRI?
Getting an MRI is a pain-free experience! It does require laying in a narrow tube, so it is not the best fit for people with claustrophobia. Once you are in the scanner, you will watch videos and play games on a small screen. The MRI magnet makes a loud “clanging” noise throughout the duration of the scan, but we provide ear plugs to help with the noise. You will have an “Emergency Squeeze Ball” that allows you to contact a team member and stop the scan at any point. The video below shows you what an MRI looks like from your perspective!
Where will I get my MRI?
You will get the MRI Scan at the Staglin Center for Cognitive Neuroscience. You can learn more about MRIs on their website.
What if I have metal in my body?
Because the MRI is a very strong magnet, metal is not allowed in the scanner. If you have metal in your body, you are most likely not eligible for an MRI scan. We will screen all participants for potential metal prior to enrollment and can help you determine whether you are able to enter the scanner.
If you have braces, surgical screws/pins, a pacemaker, insulin pump, stents, dental implants, permanent makeup, or a top permanent retainer, you are NOT eligible to enter an MRI scanner.
If you have a medical implant that is MRI safe, we will need documentation from your doctor prior to scheduling your MRI scan.
What if I have piercings?
You will need to remove all piercings prior to entering the scanner.
Study Tasks and Compensation
What happens during a check in?
Check-ins are short, online questionnaires for you to fill out in between your annual visits! They are asynchronous and we will email you a link to complete them when the time comes. These check-ins will ask you questions about your life and your mental health.
What happens during the annual visits?
For the annual visit, you will join a zoom call with one of our coordinators to complete your questionnaires and your clinician interview. You will complete the questionnaires online on your own, but a study team member will stay on the call to get you started and to answer any questions you may have.
These questionnaires ask about all aspects of your life, including your demographics, mental health, and interpersonal relationships. A clinician will join the call to review some of your mental health questionnaires and ask you questions about your daily life!
Your first visit will also include reading and signing our consent form. This also includes time to review any questions or concerns with a team member!
When do I receive compensation? Is it all at once?
Participants receive compensation after each study visit/check-in, so you will not receive the $195 all at once. After you complete a visit or a check-in survey, we will email you an Amazon e-gift card. The amount will vary depending on the type of study visit.
Do I have to pay for parking at UCLA?
We will provide compensation for parking for your MRI Visits. This is in addition to your e-gift card that compensates for study participation.
Eligibility
What if I’m 17-19 years old but I’m not in my last year of high school or GED program? Or what if I AM in my last year of high school or GED program, but I’m not 17-19 years old?
Unfortunately, you are only eligible if you meet both requirements, as together they are key parts of the specific developmental period we are looking to study.
What if I am turning 17 soon?
Please reach back out when you are eligible! If we are still recruiting participants, we will get you started on the enrollment process.
What if my friends are interested in the study?
Send them our way! We are looking for a large, diverse group of teenagers and always appreciate referrals. You can send them to this website, or send our contact information to them directly.
Parental Participation
Does my parent have to participate?
If you are 17, your parent must consent for you to join the study. They will also consent to join the study and complete the short annual questionnaires.
If you are 18 or older, we will ask your permission to contact your parent about study participation. Their participation is not mandatory, but highly encouraged.
Why are you asking my parent to participate? What will they need to do?
We are looking to gather information from your parents to get a better overview of your life! They will need to complete brief surveys once a year and meet with a coordinator once at the beginning of the study to sign the consent form.
Will you share my information with my parent?
We will not share any of your study materials (such as survey responses) with your parents. If you are under 18, we are required to inform your parent if we determine that you are a danger to yourself or others.
Does my parent need to speak English to participate?
Yes. At this time, all study materials are in English. We are working to translate our materials into other languages so please check back in!