Improving mental health assessments for children and adolescents with autism
Modifying and validating the K-CAT mental health scales for children and adolescents on the autism spectrum
This study is working to improve a mental health assessment tool for children and teens with autism, so it better meets their needs and helps identify any mental health issues that might be missed, with input from both the kids and their caregivers.
Quick facts
| Grant type | Sbir 2 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Adaptive Testing Technologies NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Chicago, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11005450 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research focuses on enhancing the K-CAT mental health scales specifically for children and adolescents on the autism spectrum. It aims to address the challenges in assessing mental health conditions that often go undetected in this population due to the inadequacy of existing tools. The project will involve two phases: first, evaluating the current K-CAT for its effectiveness with autistic youth and their caregivers, and second, modifying the tool to create a more reliable and valid version tailored for autism. By involving youth and caregiver dyads, the research seeks to ensure that the assessment is both acceptable and comprehensive.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are children and adolescents aged 0-17 who are on the autism spectrum and their caregivers.
Not a fit: Patients who do not have autism or are outside the age range of 0-17 may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to more accurate and effective mental health assessments for children and adolescents with autism, improving their overall care and treatment.
How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown that modifying assessment tools for specific populations can lead to improved diagnostic accuracy and patient outcomes, indicating a promising approach.
Where this research is happening
Chicago, United States
- Adaptive Testing Technologies — Chicago, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Cohen, Yehuda — Adaptive Testing Technologies
- Study coordinator: Cohen, Yehuda
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.