The effect of high-definition transcranial direct current stimulation (HD-tDCS) on psychological functions in drug addicts: a pilot study

Aim: This study aims to examine the effect of HD-tDCS on reducing antisocial behavior and psychological function.

Method: Primary measures including drug cravings and antisocial behavior are administered to all participants at 2 timepoints: 1) before the tDCS sessions (pre-assessment), and 2) after all tDCS sessions (post-assessment). In addition, the demographic information of from each participant (e.g., age, sex, and social adversity) are obtained at the pre-assessment. Each participant is randomly assigned to either 1) active HD-tDCS group or 2) no stimulation (sham group). Each participant receives either active or sham 13-minute HD-tDCS stimulation twice a day with an interval of 20 minutes for 5 days within 2 weeks. The stimulation (1.5 mA to each OFC site) is administered using a system called Soterix HD-tDCS. The anodal electrode is placed on the right OFC (equivalent to the location of FP2) using the 10–20 international EEG system. For both groups of participants, their adverse effects and mood are assessed after the active or sham stimulation.

Results and Conclusion: A number of psychological functions are improved after the HD-tDCS stimulation. With the pilot findings of this study, there is a number of clinical and theoretical beneficiaries that can give insight to different stakeholders including correctional and rehabilitation officers as well as the policymakers in the criminal and judicial system for the prevention and intervention of antisocial behavior.

Bess’s research focuses on the neural and psychosocial mechanism of social cognition, antisocial behavior, and schizophrenia-spectrum disorders. In recent years, she has extended her research work to the neural, motor and social functions in autism, children with special education needs, and drug addicts as well as the gut microbiome and the brain. She has been engaged in inter-disciplinary research studies in Hong Kong, Mainland China, Canada, Australia and the United States.