Jessie Frijling

Boosting the oxytocin system in acute trauma

We aim to investigate the role of the neuropeptide oxytocin in acute trauma victims with an increased initial risk for developing trauma-related psychopathology. Using fMRI techniques, we will study the effects of intranasal oxytocin and social support on brain activation patterns and functional connectivity in the acute aftermath of the traumatic event. This study will create new and deeper insights of the underlying mechanisms through which oxytocin and social context regulate traumatic stress responses and their role in the development of trauma-related psychopathology.