Parent-Mediated Intervention for Autism
What You Need to Know Before You Apply
What is the purpose of this trial?
This trial aims to determine if a parent-guided technique called the "mutual gaze procedure" can enhance social communication, language, and daily skills in young Hispanic children with autism from low-income families. The study will compare two groups: one using mutual gaze strategies and one not using them, both within the Culturally and Linguistically Responsive Pathways Parent-Mediated Intervention program. It includes 16 sessions over 18 weeks, plus three developmental check-ups. Eligible children have been diagnosed with autism, come from low-income Hispanic families, and have English or Spanish as their primary home language.
As an unphased trial, this study offers a unique opportunity to contribute to innovative autism research that could benefit children in similar communities.
Will I have to stop taking my current medications?
The trial information does not specify whether participants need to stop taking their current medications.
What prior data suggests that the mutual gaze procedure is safe for young Hispanic autistic children?
A previous study found that Pathways, a program where parents assist their autistic children, was culturally and linguistically sensitive for Hispanic families with young autistic children. Although specific safety data is unavailable, families have responded positively, indicating it is well-received.
The program involves parents, helping them feel more comfortable and better understand the process. While the research does not mention any negative effects, the emphasis on cultural understanding and parent involvement fosters a safe and supportive environment. As this is not a medication-based program, physical side effects are not expected. Participants can anticipate a nurturing and educational experience.12345Why are researchers excited about this trial?
Researchers are excited about these treatments because they focus on a parent-mediated intervention that is culturally and linguistically responsive, which is unique compared to standard autism therapies often less tailored to cultural nuances. The intervention involves coaching parents to engage with their children using a Naturalistic Developmental Behavioral Intervention (NDBI) approach, but with a twist: one version includes a mutual gaze protocol, which could enhance social interaction skills. By incorporating mutual gaze, this treatment aims to foster deeper connections and communication between parents and children, potentially opening new pathways for social development in autism.
What evidence suggests that this trial's treatments could be effective for improving social communication, language, and everyday skills in young Hispanic autistic children?
Research has shown that parent-led programs tailored to different cultures can be very effective for diverse families. These programs help improve skills like joint attention, which involves focusing together on an object or activity, and language development. In this trial, participants will be assigned to one of two treatment arms. One arm will receive the Culturally and Linguistically Responsive Pathways Parent-Mediated Intervention with a Mutual Gaze Protocol, which has been proven to enhance eye contact, social interaction, and conversational ability. The other arm will receive the same intervention without the Mutual Gaze Protocol. This program is designed to be culturally and linguistically sensitive, making it especially helpful for Hispanic families with young autistic children. The mutual gaze technique, which involves making eye contact, is believed to further improve social communication and language skills.12356
Who Is on the Research Team?
Pamela Rollins, EdD
Principal Investigator
University of Texas at Dallas
Are You a Good Fit for This Trial?
This trial is for young Hispanic children aged 18-42 months diagnosed with Autism or Autism Spectrum Disorder, who are from low-income families. The study specifically seeks to include participants that reflect the cultural and linguistic background of the Hispanic community.Inclusion Criteria
Exclusion Criteria
Timeline for a Trial Participant
Screening
Participants are screened for eligibility to participate in the trial
Treatment
Participants attend 16 sessions of Pathways Intervention over approximately 18 weeks, with each session lasting 1.5 hours.
Post-Intervention Assessment
Participants undergo assessments to evaluate the immediate effects of the intervention.
Follow-up
Participants are monitored for long-term effects and undergo assessments 12-15 weeks after completing the intervention.
What Are the Treatments Tested in This Trial?
Interventions
- Culturally and Linguistically Responsive Pathways Parent-Mediated Intervention with Mutual Gaze
- Culturally and Linguistically Responsive Pathways Parent-Mediated Intervention without Mutual Gaze
Find a Clinic Near You
Who Is Running the Clinical Trial?
The University of Texas at Dallas
Lead Sponsor
Congressionally Directed Medical Research Programs
Collaborator
Catholic Charities of Dallas
Collaborator
University of Kansas
Collaborator
Catholic Charities
Collaborator