Using wearable sensors to spot and predict challenging behavior in autistic people
SCH: Enhancing Automated Prediction of Challenging Behavior in Individuals with Autism Using Biosensor Data and Machine Learning
['FUNDING_R01'] · NORTHEASTERN UNIVERSITY · NIH-11175279
This project uses wearable sensors and smart computer programs to spot when someone with autism may be about to show aggression, self-injury, or intense emotional outbursts so caregivers can respond sooner.
Quick facts
| Phase | ['FUNDING_R01'] |
|---|---|
| Study type | Nih_funding |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | NORTHEASTERN UNIVERSITY (nih funded) |
| Locations | 1 site (BOSTON, UNITED STATES) |
| Trial ID | NIH-11175279 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this research studies
If I take part, I'll wear small biosensors that record heart rate, skin conductance, and movement while researchers use machine learning to learn my personal patterns linked to challenging behavior. The team will develop methods that let models adapt quickly to each person with little or no labeled data and continue learning as behavior and physiology change. They will test these algorithms in everyday settings to reduce false alarms and missed events. The work focuses on making the system practical for continuous, real-world use.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates are autistic individuals who experience challenging behaviors (such as aggression, self-injury, or severe emotional dysregulation) and who can wear small biosensors during daily life.
Not a fit: People who do not experience challenging behaviors, who cannot tolerate or wear the sensors, or whose behaviors are not reflected in heart rate/skin conductance/movement signals may not benefit from this approach.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this could provide earlier, personalized warnings of impending challenging behaviors, helping reduce injuries and improving daily support and planning.
How similar studies have performed: Previous pilot work from this team and others has shown promising detection of challenging events with wearables, but continuous, individualized real-world adaptation is still new and unproven.
Where this research is happening
BOSTON, UNITED STATES
- NORTHEASTERN UNIVERSITY — BOSTON, UNITED STATES (ACTIVE)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: GOODWIN, MATTHEW SCOTT — NORTHEASTERN UNIVERSITY
- Study coordinator: GOODWIN, MATTHEW SCOTT
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 below.
Conditions: Autistic Disorder