Improving adult outcomes for young adults with autism
Official title: Stepped Transition in Education Program for Emerging Adults with Autism: Pilot Effectiveness Trial
Funded at University of Alabama in Tuscaloosa · NIH-10994133 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is testing a program called STEPS to help young people with autism learn important skills for becoming more independent as they transition into adulthood, so they can have better experiences in school, work, and life overall.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Alabama in Tuscaloosa NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Tuscaloosa, United States) |
| Project start | January 1, 2023 |
| Project end | December 31, 2025 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $189,975 |
| NIH project number | 5R34MH131599-03 |
| Project ID | NIH-10994133 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are adolescents and young adults aged 16 to 21 who are diagnosed with autism spectrum disorder.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who are not on the autism spectrum or who are outside the age range of 16 to 21 may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research aims to enhance the transition to adulthood for adolescents and young adults with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) by implementing a program called STEPS. The program focuses on developing essential skills for adult autonomy, such as self-knowledge and self-determination, to improve outcomes in education, employment, and quality of life. Participants will engage in a structured intervention, with their progress assessed immediately after treatment and again six months later. The study collaborates with community agencies to ensure a comprehensive approach to support.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved employment and educational outcomes for young adults with autism, enhancing their overall quality of life.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown that similar transition programs can be effective, indicating a promising approach for this pilot trial.
Where this research is happening
-
University of Alabama in Tuscaloosa
Tuscaloosa, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: White, Susan Williams — University of Alabama in Tuscaloosa
- Study coordinator: White, Susan Williams
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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.