This study aims to assess the efficacy of anodal tDCS in modulating Rapid Response Impulsivity (RRI) and reducing incidents of aggression in people with developmental disabilities is residential or hospital settings. Using a single blind, parallel arms, randomized controlled trial design, adults (n=60) aged 18 to 65 with developmental disabilities, who have a history of impulsivity leading to aggression, will be randomised to receive either repetitive anodal or sham tDCS. Enrolled participants will receive either three treatment sessions of tDCS or sham tDCS. Behavioural and impulsivity will be measured before and immediately after treatment, one week, and one month after treatment end. Data will be analysed in SPSS using repeated measures ANOVA.
Aggressive behaviours are highly prevalent among people with developmental disabilities, both in community and inpatient or residential settings, with adverse consequences for the individuals involved and others. Some predictive factors, particularly impulsivity, are dynamic with neurobiological underpinnings, and as such amenable to change or neuromodulation using non-invasive brain stimulation techniques. With this in mind, we designed an experimental protocol to determine the efficacy of transcranial Direct Current Stimulation (tDCS) as a non-invasive brain stimulation technique to reduce impulsivity and aggression associated with developmental disability.