Understanding communication in diverse autistic adolescents with language challenges
Official title: Quantifying communicative feedback in racially and ethnically diverse autistic adolescents who are minimally verbal or have language impairment
Funded at San Diego State University · NIH-11044918 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how teenagers with autism who don’t speak much or have trouble with language communicate in different situations, especially focusing on those from diverse backgrounds, so we can create better support and tools for them as they grow up.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R21 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | San Diego State University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (San Diego, United States) |
| Project start | January 1, 2025 |
| Project end | December 31, 2027 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $207,076 |
| NIH project number | 1R21DC021769-01A1 |
| Project ID | NIH-11044918 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are racially and ethnically diverse adolescents aged 12-20 who are minimally verbal or have significant language impairments.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who are not on the autism spectrum or do not have language impairments may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates how racially and ethnically diverse adolescents with autism, who are minimally verbal or have language impairments, communicate in various contexts. By using natural language sampling, the study aims to capture the unique linguistic patterns of these individuals, which are often overlooked in traditional assessments. The goal is to develop better tools and supports that reflect the diverse experiences of these adolescents as they transition into adulthood. This research is particularly focused on understanding the communication needs of those from minoritized backgrounds, ensuring that their voices are heard and understood.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved communication assessments and support strategies for autistic adolescents, enhancing their access to services and opportunities.
How similar studies have gone: While there is emerging evidence on language variability in autistic individuals, this specific approach focusing on diverse populations is relatively novel and underexplored.
Where this research is happening
-
San Diego State University
San Diego, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Girolamo, Teresa Marie — San Diego State University
- Study coordinator: Girolamo, Teresa Marie
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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.