Using language analysis to improve social skills in adolescents with autism

Computational Linguistics for Autism-related Social Skills: Assessment for Characterization and Therapy (CLASS-ACT)

NIH-funded research University of California Santa Barbara · NIH-11088210

This study is looking to find new ways to help teenagers with autism improve their social skills and communication by using computer technology to analyze past therapy sessions and discover what works best for them.

Quick facts

Grant typeR03 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionUniversity of California Santa Barbara NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Santa Barbara, United States)
Project IDNIH-11088210 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research aims to utilize advanced computational linguistics techniques to develop effective measures for assessing social communication in adolescents on the autism spectrum. By analyzing a rich dataset from previous interventions, the project seeks to identify key linguistic markers that can predict clinical outcomes and tailor future therapies. The goal is to create scalable and objective tools that can enhance the effectiveness of interventions for youth with autism, ultimately improving their social skills and communication abilities.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are transition-aged youth diagnosed with autism spectrum disorder who are participating in social communication interventions.

Not a fit: Patients who are not on the autism spectrum or who do not require support for social communication skills may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to more personalized and effective interventions for adolescents with autism, improving their social communication skills.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research using computational linguistics in autism interventions has shown promise, indicating that this approach could yield significant advancements in the field.

Where this research is happening

Santa Barbara, 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 adolescent with autism spectrum disorderautism spectral disorderautism spectrum disorder
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.