Q: What questions are we trying to address with this research?
A: We are trying to understand how the range of speech in children with ASD may be connected to auditory processing differences and/or motor skill difficulties. Essentially, we want to know why some children have minimal speech while others are highly verbal. We are also investigating some of the unusual voice features of some children with ASD that can interfere with the ability to communicate.
Q: Why are these questions important?
A: We think these are important questions because we currently have no treatments that address the source of the problem for speech or voice difficulties of people with ASD, largely because the source of the problem is still unknown. The goal of this study is to identify the source(s) of speech and voice differences so that we can develop new treatments that target the specific issue and subsequently result in better outcomes for families.
Q: What do we need participants to do in order to address these study questions?
A: If your child has been diagnosed with ASD or may have ASD, we will confirm this diagnosis using the gold standard diagnostic measures. This involves a parent interview and a play-based observation and interview with your child. For NON-ASD Participants: If you have not considered an ASD diagnosis for your child, we will not complete the parent interview or the play-based observation.
Then we will perform a neuropsychological assessment for all participants that characterizes your child's sensory, motor, and cognitive functioning. This involves some parent questionnaires and face-to-face testing with your child.
Finally, we will measure acoustic features of your child's voice and the child's brain activity while speaking.
Q: Who is an appropriate volunteer for this study?
A: Children ages 8-16 who are on the autism spectrum or are suspected to be on the autism spectrum with a wide range of speech abilities (including nonverbal/minimally verbal as well as verbally fluent participants)
OR
Children ages 8-16 who do not have autism or another neurodevelopmental or psychiatric diagnosis are invited to volunteer.
Please note: Any children who have metal in their body, such as braces or a permanent retainer, are not good candidates for the brain imaging portion of the study.
Q: What are the benefits of participation?
A: Participants will receive $400 upon completion of the study. Parents can also receive feedback on diagnostic and neuropsychological test results.
Q: What does it cost to participate?
The study is at no cost to you!
Q: What is participating in the study like?
You can view our preparation videos in the Preparing for Your Visit tab to learn more about the study participation experience.
Q: What are your COVID-19 protocols?
A: We require all our lab members and patients to wear masks for the duration of the appointment. All participants and their caregiver are screened prior to the appointment, as well as when they arrive for their appointment. If anyone is symptomatic, we reschedule the appointment for a later date when we can increase the safety of all our visitors and staff. We also wipe down all our equipment and study materials in between each use. Additionally, all of our staff is fully vaccinated against COVID-19.
Q: This sounds cool! How do I sign up?
A: Send an email to [email protected] and we'd be happy to set up your first appointment.
Q: My family already participated, can I still help?
A: Absolutely! Spread the word to anyone you know with kids ages 8-16 (remember, they don't have to have or be suspected of having ASD) with this flyer or direct them to our website. We are glad you enjoyed your experience!