Reinforcement Learning
This research is taking place under the supervision of Dr. Kimberly Kerns, and is part of the doctoral dissertation of Jen Michel.
Who can participate?
We are looking for children ages 11-17 who have a diagnosis on the fetal alcohol spectrum (Fetal Alcohol Syndrome, partial Fetal Alcohol Syndrome, Alcohol-Related Birth Defects, or Alcohol-Related Neurodevelopmental Disorder). Children & teens who have not been exposed to prenatal alcohol or drugs are also needed to be part of the control group.
What does the research involve?
One part of the study involves playing a computer game where the participant learns by getting feedback (e.g. earning and losing points). The second part involves playing a similar sort of game, but is done in a booklet (not on the computer). In the final part of the study, the participant is asked to solve some visual reasoning problems and answer vocabulary questions. Participants have the opportunity to earn a prize, such as a gift certificate. Meanwhile, parents are asked to fill out a series of questionnaires about their child.
Participation involves a one-time visit of approximately 1 ½ hours. Appointments (including evenings and weekends) are available immediately. Bus fare or parking is reimbursed. If you are not able to travel to the University of Victoria, an appointment in your home or local community may be arranged.
Why is this research being conducted?
It is often suggested that children who are affected by prenatal alcohol exposure, even those with intelligence in the average range, do not appropriately alter their behaviour in response to behavioural consequences. These children seem to make the same mistakes over and over despite being punished for “bad” behaviour or rewarded for “good” behaviour. Although there is substantial evidence from animal research to support altered reinforcement learning associated with prenatal alcohol exposure, research in humans is lacking. Exploring this type of learning in individuals with FASD may be especially important for decision making regarding the use of consequence-based interventions in this population.
How do I find out more?
Call Jen at (250) 472-4195 or email her at jmichel@uvic.ca to hear more about the study or to schedule an appointment.
Download a flier about this study