Group-based SDARI program to improve social connection in autistic young adults

Is this trial a fit for you?

A plain-English reading of the study's rules. Only the study team can confirm whether you qualify.

What this trial studies

This randomized, two-arm study will compare a 10-week, 90-minute-per-week SDARI (socio-dramatic affective relational intervention) group to a time-matched attention control group at the AJ Drexel Autism Institute. SDARI uses improvisational and drama-based games, collaborative activities, and shared-interest tasks to foster peer engagement and group cohesion, while the control condition follows the same schedule with activities that do not target social connection. Participants will undergo multi-step screening including RAADS, ADOS-2 Module 4, and KBIT-2R, complete baseline, mid-program, and post-program surveys and interviews, and attend weekly in-person sessions. Recruitment is through community organizations, university outreach, and autism service agencies in the Philadelphia area.

Why it matters

Who can join: the full rules

Inclusion Criteria:

* Have graduated from high school (or an equivalent program) and are between the ages of 18-30 years old
* Demonstrate the ability to complete consent and all study measures and procedures in English
* Score ≥ 65 on the RAADS
* Score ≥ 70 on the KBIT-2R
* Score ≥ 6 on the ADOS-2 Module 4
* Are physically able to complete study activities (e.g., no significant physical impairment or mental condition restricting participation in study activities).
* Are physically able to travel to the AJ Drexel Autism Institute at Drexel University in Philadelphia, PA to attend all weekly study sessions

Exclusion Criteria:

* Are still enrolled in high school (or an equivalent program) or are not between the ages of 18-30 years old
* Are unable to complete study measures and/or procedures in English
* Are unable to complete consent procedures
* Score ≤ 65 on the RAADS
* Score ≤ 70 on the KBIT-2R
* Score ≤ 6 on the ADOS-2
* Cannot physically complete study activities
* Cannot physically travel to the AJ Drexel Autism Institute at Drexel University in Philadelphia, PA to attend study sessions
* Have a severe medical or psychiatric condition preventing them from safely completing study activities

Where it's running

• Drexel University
  Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, United States Recruiting

Study contacts

• Principal investigator: Matthew Lerner, PhD — Drexel University
• Study coordinator: China Parenteau, B.A.
• Email: china.parenteau@gmail.com
• Phone: 5105085858

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How to take part

1. Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
2. Check the official listing on ClinicalTrials.gov for the latest contact details and recruitment status.
3. Contact the study coordinator or principal investigator to ask for pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.