Translational Neuroscience and Potential Contributions of Functional Magnetic Resonance Imaging (fMRI) to the Prevention of Substance Misuse and Antisocial Behavior

Abstract

The interdisciplinary field of neuroscience has greatly advanced our understanding of the brain and neurobehavioral disorders. Translational neuroscience endeavors to use this knowledge to develop solutions to practical problems: for example, to improve treatment and preventive interventions for neurobehavioral disorders. Although functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI) has the potential to contribute to the diagnosis and treatment of psychiatric disorders, efforts to prevent the problems of substance misuse and antisocial behavior have been slow to incorporate neuroscience principles and neuroimaging techniques. The current article summarizes fMRI research on substance misuse and antisocial behavior, highlights its implications for intervention, and explores new ways in which the technique could contribute to prevention efforts.