Helping parents support young adults with autism during their transition to adulthood
Improving Transition Outcomes for Youth with Autism through Parent Advocacy Training: A Multi-State Randomized Controlled Trial
['FUNDING_R01'] · VANDERBILT UNIVERSITY MEDICAL CENTER · NIH-10549301
This study is testing a program that helps parents of young people with autism learn how to better support their kids as they move from high school to adulthood, so they can find jobs and continue their education more easily.
Quick facts
| Phase | ['FUNDING_R01'] |
|---|---|
| Study type | Nih_funding |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | VANDERBILT UNIVERSITY MEDICAL CENTER (nih funded) |
| Locations | 1 site (NASHVILLE, UNITED STATES) |
| Trial ID | NIH-10549301 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this research studies
This research investigates a program designed to train parents of youth with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) to effectively advocate for their children's needs as they transition from high school to adulthood. The program, known as the Volunteer Advocacy Program-Transition (VAP-T), aims to empower parents with skills and knowledge to secure necessary services and support for their children. By conducting a randomized controlled trial with 180 families across three states, the study will assess the impact of this training on employment and educational outcomes for youth with ASD. The goal is to enhance the transition experience and reduce the risk of social isolation and disengagement from education and work.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are families with youth aged 18-21 who have been diagnosed with autism spectrum disorder and are preparing to transition out of high school.
Not a fit: Patients who are not diagnosed with autism spectrum disorder or who are not in the transition age range may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved employment and educational outcomes for young adults with autism, fostering greater independence and social integration.
How similar studies have performed: Previous pilot studies have shown success with similar advocacy training programs, indicating potential for broader application and effectiveness.
Where this research is happening
NASHVILLE, UNITED STATES
- VANDERBILT UNIVERSITY MEDICAL CENTER — NASHVILLE, UNITED STATES (ACTIVE)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: TAYLOR, JULIE LOUNDS — VANDERBILT UNIVERSITY MEDICAL CENTER
- Study coordinator: TAYLOR, JULIE LOUNDS
About this research
- This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
- Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
- For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.