NIH-funded research R15 grant

Improving communication skills in adolescents with developmental disabilities

Official title: Improving social communication assessment for adolescents at risk for communication disorders

Funded at Miami University Oxford · NIH-10512670 · Data updated 2026-11-12

This study is looking to improve how we understand and support social communication skills in teenagers who might struggle with communication due to developmental disabilities, by creating personalized assessments and interventions that really fit their needs.

Quick facts

Grant typeR15 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionMiami University Oxford
NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Oxford, United States)
Project startAugust 15, 2022
Project endJuly 31, 2026
Funding year2022
Award (this year)$430,604
NIH project number1R15DC020521-01
Project IDNIH-10512670 on NIH RePORTER

Who could benefit from this research

Could help

Ideal candidates for this research are adolescents aged 0-21 who are at risk for communication disorders or have developmental disabilities.

Less likely to help

Patients who do not have communication disorders or developmental disabilities may not receive any benefit from this research.

What this research studies

This research focuses on enhancing social communication assessments for adolescents who are at risk for communication disorders, particularly those with developmental disabilities. The project aims to develop tailored interventions that improve social communication skills by using assessments that accurately reflect the adolescents' abilities in relevant contexts. By employing criterion-referenced assessments, the researchers will compare performance against established developmental milestones, ensuring that interventions are effective and personalized. The goal is to better understand and support the social communication development of these adolescents.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to more effective communication interventions that significantly improve social skills and overall outcomes for adolescents with developmental disabilities.

How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promise in improving communication skills through tailored interventions, indicating that this approach could be effective.

Where this research is happening

  • Miami University Oxford
    Oxford, United States
    Active

Researchers

  • Principal investigator: Poll, Gerard Humphrey — Miami University Oxford
  • Study coordinator: Poll, Gerard Humphrey

Related research

Other NIH-funded projects on the same topics.

About this research

  1. This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
  2. Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
  3. For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page.
Last reviewed 2026-11-14 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.