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Investigating Mechanisms Underlying Perceptual Integration in Autism
Study Site: Remote/Online Study through Boston University
Dates: 11/21/2024 - 11/20/2027
Our study examines sensory processing and decision-making in individuals with ASD, including Phelan-McDermid syndrome and profound autism. Participation consists of completing several online caregiver/participant surveys (approximately 30 minutes to 1 hour total) and participating in an online video game task conducted over Zoom (approximately 10–50 minutes depending on the game version and participant experience). During the game task, participants respond to visual stimuli while researchers study patterns of sensory perception and decision-making. All study activities are conducted remotely/online. Participants who complete both the surveys and game session will receive $50 compensation in the form of an online gift card.
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Patience in Parenting
Study Site: Baylor University's Center for Disability and Flourishing
Dates: 03/02/2026 - 06/30/2026
This study aims to better understand the experiences of parents and caregivers raising adolescents with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD), including autistic adolescents with profound autism, during the transition from adolescence to adulthood. Researchers are interested in learning more about patience, stress, support, caregiver well-being, and parent-child relationships over time as families navigate educational, healthcare, behavioral, and community support systems. Participants will complete an online survey once each year for four years. Each survey will take approximately 45 minutes to complete. A smaller group of participants may also be invited to complete brief daily surveys over a 7-day period and/or participate in a virtual interview about their experiences parenting an adolescent with IDD or autism. No medical procedures or biological specimen collection are involved in this study.
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Sensory Processing and Adaptation (SPA)
Study Site: Boston Children's Hospital
Dates: 01/23/2020 - 04/01/2028
The goal of this study is to better understand how children process sensory information as altered sensory processing, particularly in individuals with autism spectrum disorder (ASD), can often have negative impacts on downstream, higher-order processing which can include cognitive, emotional, and behavioral processes. We hope that this work will inform improved treatment options for children facing sensory processing challenges.
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The Neurodiversity Paradigm: Perspectives from Autistic Individuals
Study Site: Illinois Institute of Technology
Dates: 02/17/2026 - 12/31/2026
The Illinois Institute of Technology is conducting this study to better understand the attitudes that autistic individuals have towards the different theories about autism spectrum disorder and neurodiversity that exist in society. It aims to gather this information via qualitative interview, seeking perspectives directly from autistic individuals. This study involves an audio-recorded virtual interview with Tiona Wu, BA either independently or by caregiver proxy. The interview requires a participation commitment of approximately 1 hour. The target number for enrollment is 8-12 participants, across a range of high and low support needs.
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