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Chatbot Intervention Effects on Resting-State Brain Function in Anhedonia
Sponsor: University of Electronic Science and Technology of China
Summary
The main aim of the present study is to investigate the effects of a Motivational Interviewing-based artificial intelligence chatbot on resting-state brain function in college students with elevated anhedonia and depressive symptoms. The study will use a randomized active-control intervention design with pre- and post-intervention resting-state functional magnetic resonance imaging assessments.
Official title: Effects of a Chatbot-Based Intervention on Resting-State Functional Connectivity and Spontaneous Neural Activity in Individuals With Anhedonia
Key Details
Gender
All
Age Range
18 Years - 40 Years
Study Type
INTERVENTIONAL
Enrollment
80
Start Date
2026-06-20
Completion Date
2028-12-31
Last Updated
2026-06-24
Healthy Volunteers
Yes
Conditions
Interventions
MI Chatbot Interaction
The experimental chatbot is designed to use principles of Motivational Interviewing to support participants in exploring their personal values, motivation for change, and daily behavioral goals related to pleasure, engagement, and reward-seeking. During the intervention period, participants will interact with the chatbot regularly through brief text-based conversations. The chatbot will provide empathic, non-judgmental responses, encourage reflection on current difficulties, and help participants identify small, feasible actions that may increase daily engagement and positive experiences. It will not provide diagnosis, crisis counseling, or medical treatment.
Active Control Chatbot Interaction
Participants will interact with a chatbot matched in format and frequency of use. This chatbot will provide neutral nature-related stories or general natural history content. It will be designed to maintain participant engagement while avoiding therapeutic techniques, motivational interviewing strategies, behavioral activation guidance, or personalized mental health advice. This active control condition will help control for nonspecific effects of chatbot interaction, attention, expectancy, and digital engagement.
Locations (1)
University of Electronic Science and Technology of China
Chengdu, Sichuan, China