Using a mobile app to help children with autism manage challenging behaviors

Reducing Challenging Behaviors In Children With Autism Through Digital Health

['FUNDING_CAREER'] · UNIVERSITY OF PENNSYLVANIA · NIH-10657558

This study is creating a friendly mobile app to help kids with autism manage tough behaviors by tracking their heart rate and stress levels, making it easier for them and their families to understand what triggers these behaviors and how to cope better.

Quick facts

Phase['FUNDING_CAREER']
Study typeNih_funding
SexAll
SponsorUNIVERSITY OF PENNSYLVANIA (nih funded)
Locations1 site (PHILADELPHIA, UNITED STATES)
Trial IDNIH-10657558 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this research studies

This research aims to develop and test a mobile health application designed to help children with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) manage challenging behaviors by measuring physiological stress indicators. The app will utilize heart rate data to identify emotional dysregulation, which can lead to these behaviors. By understanding triggers and providing real-time support, the app seeks to improve communication and coping strategies for children and their families. The project will involve interviews with parents and educators to ensure the app meets their needs and is user-friendly.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are children aged 0-11 years diagnosed with autism spectrum disorder who exhibit challenging behaviors.

Not a fit: Patients who do not have autism spectrum disorder or 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 provide children with autism and their families a valuable tool to reduce challenging behaviors and improve overall well-being.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promise in using digital health interventions to manage behavioral challenges in children with autism, indicating that this approach may be effective.

Where this research is happening

PHILADELPHIA, 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.

View on NIH RePORTER →

Last reviewed 2026-05-15 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.