Improving executive function in children with autism in South Korea

A Randomized, Control Trial of Executive Function Training for Korean Kindergartners With Autism Spectrum Disorder

NA · Korea University · NCT06523660

This study is testing a new training program to help improve thinking and planning skills in young children with autism in South Korea.

Quick facts

PhaseNA
Study typeInterventional
Enrollment40 (estimated)
Ages5 Years to 7 Years
SexAll
SponsorKorea University (other)
Locations1 site (Seoul)
Trial IDNCT06523660 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this trial studies

This randomized controlled study aims to evaluate the acceptability, feasibility, and preliminary efficacy of an executive function (EF) training intervention for children aged 5 to 7 with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) in South Korea. The study will assess the intervention's effectiveness using multimodal methods, including lab-based behavioral tasks and electrophysiological measures, while also examining the generalization of skills to everyday settings through parent ratings. With limited intervention services available during critical school transition periods, this research seeks to fill a significant gap in support for young children with ASD.

Who should consider this trial

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this study are Korean children aged 5 to 7 with a confirmed diagnosis of autism spectrum disorder and a non-verbal IQ of 85 or above.

Not a fit: Patients with a non-verbal IQ below 85 or those with significant sensory or motor impairments may not benefit from this study.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this intervention could enhance executive function skills in autistic children, leading to improved social and academic outcomes.

How similar studies have performed: While few studies have investigated EF interventions in ASD, the need for evidence-based approaches suggests that this study could provide valuable insights into a relatively novel area.

Eligibility criteria

Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria:

* Previous medical diagnosis of ASD, confirmed by Autism Diagnostic Observation Schedule, Second Edition (ADOS-2)
* Non-verbal IQ (NVIQ) equal to or above 85
* Verbal children (with flexible phrases or complex sentences)

Exclusion Criteria:

* NVIQ below 85
* Presence of medical disorders or injuries with implications for the central nervous system or that require medications that alter EEG processes such as anticonvulsants
* Presence of significant sensory or motor impairment
* Presence of major physical anomalies

Where this trial is running

Seoul

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

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.