A new study at Brown University looked at brain activity in people with obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) while they did a sequential cognitive task in an MRI scanner.
Participants named the color or the shape of images in a particular order, for example color, color, shape, shape. People with OCD performed the sequence as well as a control group, but brain scans showed extra activity in several regions.
The extra activity appeared in areas tied to motor and task control, working memory, and object recognition. Researchers say that repositioning transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS) coils to target these regions might improve symptoms.
Difficult words
- sequential — in a particular order of images
- cognitive — related to thinking and mental tasks
- scanner — a machine that makes images of the brain
- participant — people who take part in a research studyParticipants
- control — a comparison group in a research study
- memory — the ability to keep and use information
- region — a part or area of the brainregions
Tip: hover, focus or tap highlighted words in the article to see quick definitions while you read or listen.
Discussion questions
- How would you feel about a brain scan (MRI)?
- Do you think studying brain activity can help people with disorders? Why?
- Have you ever done a task in a particular order and found it difficult? Describe it.
Related articles
Ancestral healing in the Caribbean
Ancestral healing asks societies to face historical wounds so people can live healthier lives. In the Caribbean, educators combine shamanic practices, nervous-system work and cultural rituals with scientific findings about trauma and community care.
Mental health conditions raise risk of injury
A large study in Nature Mental Health found people with mental health conditions have higher risks of self-harm, assault and unintentional injuries. The research used population records and had US federal funding and calls for better prevention.
