EXPLORE Study
Beginning in early 2026, the Translational Research on Eating and Affect (TREAT) Lab at
Virginia Commonwealth University (VCU) will recruit female participants (ages 12-20) with and without eating disorder symptoms for a research study. The goal of the study is to understand how the development of learning and decision-making affect eating disorder and other symptoms. Participants in this study will complete interviews and questionnaires about their eating and mental and physical health, and have their height and blind weight measured. Participants will additionally complete a computer task during an fMRI brain scan. Participants will then be asked to complete annual follow-ups for two years, in which they will complete a computer task and interviews about their eating and mental and physical health. Participants can receive up to $240 total over time, plus bonuses (ranging from $0 to $30 total). Some aspects of the study can be conducted remotely.
Stay tuned to learn more about the study, or call the TREAT Lab at 804-827-4174 or
treatlab@vcuhealth.org.
