Department of Psychology
Queen's University- Dr Mary C. Olmstead
- Research Team
- MotiCog Research
- Publications
- Teaching
Research
If you are interested in participating in any studies for PSYC100 credit or small cash remuneration, please email moticogstudy@gmail.com
Impulsivity in Addiction
Drug addiction is characterized by two behavioural traits: compulsion to take the drug (drug-seeking) and loss of control in limiting drug intake (impulsivity). Based on decades of research, we have a detailed understanding of the environmental and physiological factors that influence compulsive drug use. We know far less about the impulsive aspects of drug addiction although our research (and that of many colleagues around the world) is helping to uncover the mechanisms that lead to uncontrolled drug use.
For more information and specific projects related to this topic:
Developmental Neurobiology
For more information on specific projects related to this topic:
- Early Adverse Experience and Drug Addiction
- Adolescent Vulnerability to Addictive Disorders
- Stress in Childhood Predicts Depression and Anxiety
Novel Analgesic Mechanisms
Opiates are powerful analgesics, but their clinical use is hindered by side effects, tolerance, and concerns about dependence and addiction. A resolution to this problem may be provided by the paradoxical effects of ultra-low-dose opioid antagonists. Recently we found that this phenomenon extends to the cannabinoid syste
Motivation-Cognition Interactions in Humans
Disruptions in motivation and/or cognition are common symptoms of many psychiatric disorders. By studying these from different perspectives, we hope to gain an understanding of how motivational and cognitive processes interact in both ‘normal’ and ‘abnormal’ states.
For more information on specific projects related to this topic: