Exploring Eye Contact in Adults with Autism
Course of Face-to-face Interactions in Adults With Autism: An Exploratory Mixed Methods Experimental Design
This study looks at how adults with autism make eye contact during conversations and how it affects their stress levels.
Quick facts
| Phase | Not applicable |
|---|---|
| Study type | Interventional |
| Enrollment | 54 (estimated) |
| Ages | 18 Years to 65 Years |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | UMC Utrecht Academic / other |
| Locations | 1 site (Deventer, Overijssel) |
| Trial ID | NCT06925308 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this trial studies
This research investigates how adults with autism engage in eye contact during both formal and informal conversations, examining factors such as the length, frequency, and overall presentation of eye contact. It also assesses the physiological responses associated with eye contact to determine its impact on stress levels. The study employs an exploratory mixed methods design, involving hidden recordings of eye behavior and skin conductance measurements during conversations. Participants will also review their recorded interactions to gain insights into their eye contact patterns.
Who should consider this trial
Good fit: Ideal candidates include neurotypical adults and adults diagnosed with Autism Spectrum Disorder who can understand instructions and are motivated to participate.
Not a fit: Patients who are not proficient in Dutch or have mental instability may not benefit from this study.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this study could enhance understanding of social interactions in adults with autism, potentially leading to improved communication strategies.
How similar studies have performed: While there have been studies on eye contact in autism, this specific approach of mixed methods and hidden recordings is relatively novel.
Eligibility criteria
Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion criteria * Neurotypical adults and adults with an ASD, determined according to an internationally recognized classification system. * Able to understand the instructions. * Motivation to participate in research. Exclusion criteria * No good command of the Dutch language. * Use of alcohol and/or recreational drugs during the research. * Mentally too unstable to participate in the research. * Familiarity with treatment in the VGZ.
Where this trial is running
Deventer, Overijssel
- Dimence Groep — Deventer, Overijssel, Netherlands (Recruiting)
Study contacts
- Study coordinator: Jos Boer, MSc
- Email: j.c.boer-30@umcutrecht.nl
- Phone: +31 6 20083507
How to participate
- Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
- Visit the official trial page on ClinicalTrials.gov for the most current contact information and recruitment status.
- Contact the listed study coordinator or principal investigator to request pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.