Improving positive behaviors in children with intellectual and developmental disabilities
Official title: Basic and Clinical Studies in Reinforcing Positive Behaviors in Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities
Funded at Utah State University · NIH-11015061 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking for ways to help children with intellectual and developmental disabilities who struggle with tough behaviors like aggression and self-injury, by teaching caregivers how to encourage positive actions and reduce the negative ones, all to make life better for these kids.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Utah State University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Logan, United States) |
| Project start | February 9, 2018 |
| Project end | January 31, 2028 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $606,780 |
| NIH project number | 5R01HD093734-08 |
| Project ID | NIH-11015061 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are children aged 0-11 years who exhibit severe problem behaviors associated with intellectual and developmental disabilities.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who do not have intellectual or developmental disabilities or who are older than 11 years may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research focuses on understanding and addressing severe problem behaviors, such as aggression and self-injury, in children with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD). It utilizes a behavior modification approach that reinforces positive behaviors while reducing negative ones. The study aims to develop effective interventions that can be consistently applied by caregivers to prevent relapse of problem behaviors. By analyzing the dynamics of reinforcement, the research seeks to create strategies that enhance the quality of life for affected children.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to more effective behavioral interventions that improve the social integration and overall quality of life for children with IDD.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promising results in using behavior modification techniques for similar conditions, indicating that this approach has potential for success.
Where this research is happening
-
Utah State University
Logan, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Shahan, Timothy a — Utah State University
- Study coordinator: Shahan, Timothy a
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.