Using behavioral strategies to reduce problem behaviors in individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities.

Using Behavioral Economics to Mitigate Relapse of Problem Behavior in an Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities Population

['FUNDING_R21'] · OAKLAND UNIVERSITY · NIH-10986782

This study is looking at ways to help people with intellectual and developmental disabilities who struggle with behaviors like aggression and self-injury by teaching their caregivers effective communication strategies they can use at home, making it easier to keep these behaviors from coming back when they leave a treatment setting.

Quick facts

Phase['FUNDING_R21']
Study typeNih_funding
SexAll
SponsorOAKLAND UNIVERSITY (nih funded)
Locations1 site (ROCHESTER, UNITED STATES)
Trial IDNIH-10986782 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this research studies

This research focuses on individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD) who exhibit problem behaviors such as aggression and self-injury. It aims to implement behavioral treatments, particularly functional communication training, in community settings like homes, where caregivers can apply these strategies. The study will explore methods to prevent relapse of these behaviors, which often occur when treatments are moved from controlled environments to everyday life. By addressing the challenges caregivers face, the research seeks to improve the effectiveness of behavioral interventions.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities who exhibit problem behaviors such as aggression or self-injury.

Not a fit: Patients who do not have intellectual and developmental disabilities or who do not exhibit problem behaviors may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to more effective strategies for managing problem behaviors in individuals with IDD, ultimately improving their quality of life and reducing caregiver burden.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown that behavioral treatments can be effective in controlled settings, but this approach aims to test these methods in real-world environments, making it a novel application.

Where this research is happening

ROCHESTER, 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.