Exploring attachment styles in autistic adults

Autism Spectrum Disorder and Attachment. An Explorative Study of Attachment Styles in Adults With Autism Spectrum Disorder

Parnassia Groep · NCT06375226

This study looks at how different attachment styles affect adults with autism to better understand their relationships and feelings.

Quick facts

Study typeObservational
Enrollment60 (estimated)
Ages18 Years to 65 Years
SexAll
SponsorParnassia Groep (other)
Locations1 site (Rotterdam, South Holland)
Trial IDNCT06375226 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this trial studies

This study examines the relationship between attachment styles and autism spectrum disorder (ASD) in adults. It aims to explore how attachment styles manifest in individuals diagnosed with ASD and to understand the implications of these relationships. By focusing on adults aged 18 to 65 with a primary diagnosis of ASD, the research seeks to fill a gap in the existing literature, which has largely overlooked adult populations. The study will involve observational assessments of attachment styles among 60 participants.

Who should consider this trial

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this study are adults aged 18 to 65 with a clinical diagnosis of autism spectrum disorder and an IQ above 80.

Not a fit: Patients with acute psychosis, acute suicidality, or an intellectual disability may not benefit from this study.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this study could enhance understanding of attachment in autistic adults, potentially leading to improved therapeutic approaches.

How similar studies have performed: While research on attachment in children with ASD has been conducted, studies focusing on adults with ASD are limited, making this approach relatively novel.

Eligibility criteria

Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria:

* Inclusion criteria are:

  * a primary clinical diagnosis of DSM-5 ASD (APA, 2013)
  * age 18 - 65 years
  * no intellectual disability (IQ \> 80)

Exclusion Criteria:

* acute psychosis
* acute suicidality
* psychotic disorder
* intellectual disability (IQ \< 80)

Where this trial is running

Rotterdam, South Holland

Study contacts

How to participate

  1. Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
  2. Visit the official trial page on ClinicalTrials.gov for the most current contact information and recruitment status.
  3. Contact the listed study coordinator or principal investigator to request pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.

View on ClinicalTrials.gov →

Conditions: Autism Spectrum Disorder, Attachtment, Adults

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.