Study

Intermittent Explosive Disorder: A Family study

Principal Investigator

Emil F. Coccaro, M.D.

Description

The first purpose of this study is to determine if Intermittent Explosive Disorder (IED) runs in families. IED is a disorder that is notable for frequent and sudden outbursts of anger (yelling, throwing and breaking things, hitting people) that lead to problems with other people socially or at work. Most people think that people with IED have a “temper problem”. A second purpose of this study is to see if a history of IED is related to differences in the function of serotonin (a chemical which is thought to be involved in anger) as measured through studies on blood platelets and/or in variations in certain genes (hereditary units) that can be detected by examining DNA (the material that carries genetic information) in blood samples.

Most people between the age of 18 and 65, with two or more living biological relatives (i.e. mom, dad, brother, sister, adult son or daughter) are eligible for the study. The study involves direct interviews, completing questionnaires, some computer tasks, and giving a small blood sample. The immediate family members will be asked for their permission to be contacted. If they will agree to be involved in the study they will go through the same steps as the proband (the initial member of a family). The participation is voluntary and confidential. Each study participant will receive a free psychological evaluation and can also earn at least $250 for completing all of the study procedures. In addition, travel expenses and parking will be reimbursed. Participation in the study enables families to contribute directly to the research effort and learn more about themselves. Findings and publications based on the collected data will never reveal the participant’s identity. The National Institute of Mental Health (NIMH) sponsors the study.

Eligibility

  • Cannot be adopted.
  • Must have at least two 1st degree relatives (parents, full siblings, children over 15) available for study.
  • Between the ages of 18 and 65.
  • Meet other eligibility requirements as outlined by the research protocol.

    • Duration

    8 to 10 hours

    Compensation

    Up to $250 + transportation

    Contact

    Natalia Flores
    (773) 834-7715
    familystudy@yoda.bsd.uchicago.edu