The Use of Transcranial Direct Current Stimulation (tDCS) in Adults With Developmental Disabilities

ConditionAggression
Trial statusRecruiting
Trial phaseNot applicable
Trial typeInterventional
Biological sexAll
Age18-65
SponsorDr. Najat Khalifa

About this trial

Aggressive behaviours are highly prevalent among people with developmental disabilities, both in community and inpatient or residential settings, with adverse consequences for the individuals involved and others. Some predictive factors, particularly impulsivity, are dynamic with neurobiological underpinnings, and as such amenable to change or neuromodulation using non-invasive brain stimulation techniques. With this in mind, we designed an experimental protocol to determine the efficacy of transcranial Direct Current Stimulation (tDCS) as a non-invasive brain stimulation technique to reduce impulsivity and aggression associated with developmental disability.

Eligibility criteria

Qualifiers

Adults aged 18-64 years

Diagnosis of a developmental disability

History of one or more incidents of aggression in the last month

Consent to participate in the trial by the individual or their Substitute Decision Maker

Disqualifiers

History of epilepsy or seizures

History of acquired brain injury

Having metal in the brain/skull, e.g. splinters, fragments or clips

Having a cochlear implant

Trial design

Treatments tested in this trial

  • Transcranial Direct Current Stimulation

Treatment groups

60 Participants
are divided into 2 treatment groups

Sponsors and collaborators

Dr. Najat Khalifa

Lead sponsor

Queen's University

Sponsor institution