Understanding loneliness in adolescents with autism and typical development
Official title: A Prospective-Longitudinal Investigation of the Biopsychosocial Predictors of Loneliness Across Adolescence in Autism and Typical Development
Funded at Univ of Maryland, College Park · NIH-10983315 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study looks at what makes teenagers, especially those with autism, feel lonely and how their friendships and thoughts play a role, so we can better understand and help them during this important time in their lives.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Univ of Maryland, College Park NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (College Park, United States) |
| Project start | December 15, 2020 |
| Project end | November 30, 2025 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $643,280 |
| NIH project number | 5R01MH125370-05 |
| Project ID | NIH-10983315 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research include adolescents aged 12 to 20, particularly those diagnosed with autism spectrum disorder.
✕Less likely to help
Patients outside the age range of 12 to 20 or those without autism spectrum disorder may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the factors that contribute to feelings of loneliness in adolescents, particularly focusing on those with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) compared to their typically developing peers. By examining social relationships and cognitive processes, the study aims to identify both risk and protective factors that influence loneliness during this critical developmental period. The research employs a biopsychosocial model, integrating biological, psychological, and social perspectives to understand how these elements interact and affect loneliness. Participants will be monitored over time to assess changes and patterns in their experiences of loneliness.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to targeted interventions that help reduce loneliness and improve mental health outcomes for adolescents with autism.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has indicated that understanding social dynamics can significantly impact loneliness, suggesting that this approach may yield valuable insights.
Where this research is happening
-
Univ of Maryland, College Park
College Park, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Redcay, Elizabeth — Univ of Maryland, College Park
- Study coordinator: Redcay, Elizabeth
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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.