What is the purpose of the study?
We have developed a computerized environment to teach pre-schoolers at risk of autism to look at faces and understand social cues.
Who can participate?
Children with or at risk of an autism spectrum disorder, age 2 – 5 (24 to 60 months). A brother or sister age 5-12 is also invited to help at a few of the sessions. We especially invite the participation of families from minority groups.
What is involved in the study?
Your child will take part in up to 20 sessions that will last for half an hour to just over an hour each. Training will be presented on a video screen inside an adapted children’s arcade helicopter ride, so that an eye-tracking camera can monitor where the child is looking. As the child increases attention to the faces and social cues on the screen, rewards of praise, preferred video, music, and/or rides will be offered.
What are the benefits of participation?
It is important to note that this is an experimental study. We do not know whether your child will benefit from taking part in this study.
There is no payment for participation, nor is there any charge. We will provide help with transportation costs, and cab fare for families without a personal vehicle who live within a 15-mile radius of the university.
Who is conducting the study?
Researchers at the Catholic University of America (CUA) in Washington, DC are carrying out this study with funding from the NIMH. CUA is located at the Brookland-CUA Metro. Driving and parking directions will be provided.
How do I find out more?
For further information, please contact Cheryl Trepagnier, Ph.D. at (202) 319-5780 trepagnier@cua.edu (please put “Social Attention Study” in the subject line).
