Improving how we measure emotions and social behavior in youth with mental health issues

Optimized Affective Computing Measures of Social Processes and Negative Valence in Youth Psychopathology

NIH-funded research Children's Hosp of Philadelphia · NIH-11021079

This study is looking to improve how we understand and measure the feelings and social behaviors of kids and teens, especially those with autism, anxiety, or depression, by using cool technology to analyze their facial expressions and emotions.

Quick facts

Grant typeR01 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionChildren's Hosp of Philadelphia NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Philadelphia, United States)
Project IDNIH-11021079 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research aims to enhance the measurement of social and emotional behaviors in children and adolescents, particularly those with psychiatric conditions like autism and anxiety. By using advanced techniques such as facial expression analysis and sentiment analysis, the study seeks to create more accurate and objective tools for assessing emotional and social functioning. The research will involve collecting data from 750 adolescents aged 12-17, including those with autism spectrum disorder, anxiety, or depression, to better understand their emotional responses and social interactions.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research include adolescents aged 12-17 who have autism spectrum disorder, anxiety disorders, depressive disorders, or are typically developing.

Not a fit: Patients outside the age range of 12-17 or those without any psychiatric or developmental conditions may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to more effective assessments and interventions for youth with mental health conditions, improving their overall development and quality of life.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown success in using similar biobehavioral markers for predicting autism, indicating a promising approach for this study.

Where this research is happening

Philadelphia, United States

Researchers

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 below.
Conditions Affective Disorders
Last reviewed 2026-06-13 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.