Brain and Behavior Change Program

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1. Resource Description

   Vision and Goals There is a new opportunity to translate concepts and tools from the field of cognitive neuroscience to accelerate the science and practice of health behavior change interventions. With advances in the neuroimaging field, we are learning where and how self-control processes are executed in the brain. This work points to the central role of neural activity in the dorsolateral prefrontal cortices in self-control processes that contribute to healthy choices. Further, emerging evidence shows that activity in the prefrontal cortices and cognitive control circuits can be modulated using a variety of strategies including cognitive exercise training, pharmacotherapy, direct current transcranial stimulation, and neuro-feedback training. The Brain and Behavior Change Program within the Center for Interdisciplinary Research for Nicotine Addiction will translate cognitive neuroscience research into clinical interventions to motivate and sustain health behavior change. The main premise is that it is possible to enhance the brain’s capacity to activate cognitive control circuits to modulate self-control processes that contribute to health risk behaviors, and ultimately to poor health outcomes.

2. Contact

   Lerman, Caryn., PhD

3. Affiliation

   Center for Interdisciplinary Research on Nicotine Addiction

4. Website(s)

   https://www.med.upenn.edu/cirna/brain-behavior-and-change.html