Transcranial Direct Current Stimulation and Antisocial Behavior

The Effect of Transcranial Direct Current Stimulation of the Prefrontal Cortex on Antisocial Behavior

The main objective of this study is to investigate the causal relationship between prefrontal cortex activity and antisocial behavior, as well as risk factors for antisocial behavior. Specifically, this study tests the hypothesis that upregulating activity in the prefrontal cortex through a non-invasive form of brain stimulation, transcranial direct current stimulation (tDCS) will reduce antisocial and aggressive behavior. The effects of 3 days of anodal stimulation over the prefrontal cortex are assessed.

Inclusion Criteria:

• Above 18 (with parental consent) or above 21 (without parental consent)
• Able to understand the nature of the study and give informed consent

Exclusion Criteria:

• History of or active neurologic, cardiovascular, or psychiatric disease including anxiety disorders (e.g., PTSD, panic attacks, obsessive-compulsive disorder) and mood disorders (e.g., depression)
• Currently consuming anti-convulsant, anti-psychotic, or sedative/hypnotic medications
• Currently consuming anti-depressants
• History of seizures
• Metallic implants on scalp
• Participated in any other non-invasive brain stimulation study in the same day
• Ever had an adverse reaction to tDCS