title: Topical Review: Unique Contributions of Magnetic Resonance Imaging to Pediatric Psychology Research.
abstract: OBJECTIVE
  This review aims to provide a brief introduction of the utility of magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) methods in pediatric psychology research, describe several exemplar studies that highlight the unique benefits of MRI techniques for pediatric psychology research, and detail methods for addressing several challenges inherent to pediatric MRI research.
  
  
  METHODS
  Literature review.
  
  
  RESULTS
  Numerous useful applications of MRI research in pediatric psychology have been illustrated in published research. MRI methods yield information that cannot be obtained using neuropsychological or behavioral measures.
  
  
  CONCLUSIONS
  Using MRI in pediatric psychology research may facilitate examination of neural structures and processes that underlie health behaviors. Challenges inherent to conducting MRI research with pediatric research participants (e.g., head movement) may be addressed using evidence-based strategies. We encourage pediatric psychology researchers to consider adopting MRI techniques to answer research questions relevant to pediatric health and illness.
authors.affiliation: Brigham Young University chadjensen@byu.edu.
authors.forename: Chad D
authors.initials: CD
authors.lastname: Jensen
authors.affiliation: Brigham Young University.
authors.forename: Kara M
authors.initials: KM
authors.lastname: Duraccio
authors.affiliation: Brigham Young University.
authors.forename: Kaylie M
authors.initials: KM
authors.lastname: Carbine
authors.affiliation: Brigham Young University.
authors.forename: C Brock
authors.initials: CB
authors.lastname: Kirwan
mesh_terms: D035843:Biomedical Research; D001921:Brain / Q000503:physiopathology*; D002648:Child; D002653:Child Behavior Disorders / Q000175:diagnosis / Q000503:physiopathology*; D005260:Female; D015438:Health Behavior; D006801:Humans; D008279:Magnetic Resonance Imaging / Q000379:methods*; D002666:Psychology, Child
keywords: chronic illness; developmental perspectives; neuropsychology