Couples Research Study

Study Description:

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Saguaro nighttime silhouette background with Research Study Flyer for the Couples Study (AKA CLOSE study)

Are you in a long-term romantic relationship? Would you and your partner like to each earn up to $200 and a picture of your brain by participating in research? Researchers from the Neuroscience of Emotion and Thought Lab and the Lab for Social Connectedness and Health are recruiting couples to participate in a multi-session study examining first impressions and interactions between relationship partners.

Procedure:

  • One virtual interview about mental health (completed individually)
  • Two in-person lab visits, each lasting about 3 hours (attended by both partners)
  • One in-person MRI brain scan per partner
  • Daily virtual surveys at home via text throughout one week, in between your in-person visits (completed individually)
  • One set of follow-up virtual questionnaires 6 months after your visits (completed individually)

Eligibility:

To participate in this study, you will need to meet the following requirements:

  • Between 18 and 55 years old
  • In a monogamous relationship for at least 18 months
  • Living together at least 6 months
  • Able to complete in-person study sessions with their partner

Compensation:

Participants will receive up to $200 for completing the study and a digital picture of their brain.

 

Interested? Contact us:

Complete our online screening form

Learn More

For more information about the study, please email the researchers at: 

couplesresearch@email.arizona.edu

NOTE: This study will end its participant search in January 2026.


An Institutional Review Board responsible for human subjects research at The University of Arizona reviewed this research project and found it to be acceptable, according to applicable state and federal regulations and University policies designed to protect the rights and welfare of participants in research.

Updated: 07/07/25