Understanding anxiety in adolescents with autism through body responses
Assessing Anxiety in Adolescents with Autism Spectrum Disorder: The Role of Autonomic Activity as a Biomarker
['FUNDING_CAREER'] · UNIV OF MARYLAND, COLLEGE PARK · NIH-11051908
This study is looking at how the body's natural responses can help us understand anxiety in teenagers with autism, and it aims to find patterns that show how anxiety levels change in different situations and among different backgrounds.
Quick facts
| Phase | ['FUNDING_CAREER'] |
|---|---|
| Study type | Nih_funding |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | UNIV OF MARYLAND, COLLEGE PARK (nih funded) |
| Locations | 1 site (COLLEGE PARK, UNITED STATES) |
| Trial ID | NIH-11051908 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this research studies
This research investigates how autonomic activity, which reflects the body's physiological responses, can serve as a biomarker for anxiety in adolescents with autism spectrum disorder (ASD). By collecting data from both autistic and non-autistic adolescents, the study aims to identify patterns of autonomic activity that correlate with anxiety levels. The research will also consider the impact of ecological context and race on these relationships, utilizing real-time monitoring techniques to gather data in natural settings. This approach seeks to provide a more objective measure of anxiety in this population, which has historically faced challenges in accurate diagnosis.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are adolescents aged 0-14 years who are diagnosed with autism spectrum disorder, particularly those experiencing anxiety symptoms.
Not a fit: Patients who do not have autism spectrum disorder or who are outside the age range of 0-14 years may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved methods for identifying and managing anxiety in adolescents with autism, ultimately enhancing their mental health and quality of life.
How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promise in using physiological measures to assess anxiety in various populations, suggesting that this approach may yield valuable insights for adolescents with autism.
Where this research is happening
COLLEGE PARK, UNITED STATES
- UNIV OF MARYLAND, COLLEGE PARK — COLLEGE PARK, UNITED STATES (ACTIVE)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: YARGER, HEATHER — UNIV OF MARYLAND, COLLEGE PARK
- Study coordinator: YARGER, HEATHER
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.
Conditions: adolescent with autism spectrum disorder