How rhythm affects social communication in autism
Official title: Rhythm, social information, and conversational entrainment in autism
Funded at Vanderbilt University Medical Center · NIH-11044158 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how people with autism communicate by focusing on the rhythm and timing of their speech during conversations, to see how these factors help or make it harder for them to connect with others.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R21 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Vanderbilt University Medical Center NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Nashville, United States) |
| Project start | March 1, 2024 |
| Project end | February 28, 2026 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $202,743 |
| NIH project number | 5R21DC021254-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-11044158 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research include individuals diagnosed with autism spectrum disorder, ranging from children to adults.
✕Less likely to help
Patients without autism spectrum disorder or those who do not experience communication challenges may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the role of rhythm and timing in social interactions, particularly focusing on how individuals with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) communicate. By using a novel automated algorithm to analyze speech patterns, the study aims to understand how rhythm sensitivity influences conversational entrainment, where speakers adapt their speech to match each other. The research will explore both the automatic nature of this process and the social factors that may enhance or hinder communication among individuals with ASD. Participants will engage in conversations while their speech rhythms are monitored to identify patterns and challenges in communication.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved communication strategies and interventions for individuals with autism, enhancing their social interactions.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding the role of rhythm in communication, suggesting that this approach could yield valuable insights for individuals with autism.
Where this research is happening
-
Vanderbilt University Medical Center
Nashville, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Lense, Miriam — Vanderbilt University Medical Center
- Study coordinator: Lense, Miriam
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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.