How caregiver speech affects brain and behavior development in infants at risk for autism.
Caregiver Speech and Brain-Behavior Development in Infants At-Risk for ASD
This study is looking at how the way caregivers talk to their babies, especially those with an older sibling with autism, can help support their brain and behavior development in the first year of life, with the hope of finding ways to help them before any signs of autism appear.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Minnesota NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Minneapolis, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11079667 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research investigates how the speech of caregivers influences the brain and behavior development of infants who are at high risk for autism spectrum disorder (ASD). By focusing on infants with an older sibling diagnosed with autism, the study aims to understand the protective effects of caregiver interactions during the critical first year of life. Researchers will collect and analyze recordings of caregiver and infant speech during natural interactions at home, as well as during structured play sessions in a lab setting. The goal is to identify early indicators that could inform interventions for infants before the onset of ASD symptoms.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are infants aged 0-12 months who have an older sibling diagnosed with autism spectrum disorder.
Not a fit: Infants without a familial history of autism or those who are not at high risk for developing autism may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to early interventions that enhance developmental outcomes for infants at risk for autism.
How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding early interventions for autism, making this approach both relevant and potentially impactful.
Where this research is happening
Minneapolis, United States
- University of Minnesota — Minneapolis, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Swanson, Meghan Rae — University of Minnesota
- Study coordinator: Swanson, Meghan Rae
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.