Understanding how anxiety and ADHD affect autism spectrum disorder

Stratifying the Heterogeneity of Autism Spectrum Disorder: Impact of Co-Occurring Anxiety and ADHD

NIH-funded research Duke University · NIH-11140296

This study is looking at how conditions like anxiety and ADHD affect children with autism, so we can better understand their needs and improve how we diagnose and treat them.

Quick facts

Grant typeR01 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionDuke University NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Durham, United States)
Project IDNIH-11140296 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research investigates the complexities of autism spectrum disorder (ASD) by examining how co-occurring conditions like anxiety and ADHD influence the disorder. The study aims to identify different subgroups within ASD to improve diagnosis and treatment strategies. Using a combination of parent reports, observational assessments, and neurophysiological measures, researchers will analyze children with ASD alone and those with additional anxiety or ADHD. This approach seeks to uncover unique and combined effects of these conditions on behavior and brain function.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are children aged 0-11 years diagnosed with autism spectrum disorder, particularly those who may also experience anxiety or ADHD.

Not a fit: Patients who do not have autism spectrum disorder or who are outside the age range of 0-11 years may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to more personalized and effective treatment plans for children with autism and co-occurring conditions.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown that understanding the interplay of co-occurring conditions can significantly enhance treatment outcomes for complex disorders, suggesting this approach may yield valuable insights.

Where this research is happening

Durham, 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 Anxiety Disordersanxiety spectrum 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.