Improving self-control and communication skills in children with challenging behaviors
Official title: A Single-Arm Pilot Trial for Mitigating Relapse of Severe Problem Behavior
Run by Auburn University · NCT06732219 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is testing new ways to help children with challenging behaviors, especially those with autism, improve their self-control and communication skills to replace inappropriate actions.
Quick facts
| Study type | Interventional |
|---|---|
| Ages | 6 Years to 17 Years |
| Sex | All |
| Enrollment | 10 (estimated) |
| Sponsor | Auburn University Academic / other |
| Locations | 2 sites (Auburn, Alabama and 1 other locations) |
| Status | Recruiting |
| Started | November 14, 2024 |
| Main results expected | August 2026 |
| Study ends | August 2026 |
| Registry record updated | December 13, 2024 |
| Trial ID | NCT06732219 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
Is this trial a fit for you?
✓Likely a good fit
Ideal candidates for this study are children and adolescents aged 6 to 17 with intellectual and developmental disabilities who exhibit severe problem behaviors maintained by social positive reinforcement.
✕Probably not a fit
Patients who do not exhibit challenging behaviors or are outside the age range of 6 to 17 may not benefit from this study.
A plain-English reading of the study's rules. Only the study team can confirm whether you qualify.
What this trial studies
This study aims to enhance the effectiveness and longevity of behavior-change treatments for children and adolescents with challenging behaviors, particularly those with neurodevelopmental disorders like autism. Researchers will assess individual preferences and the underlying causes of these behaviors, while teaching functional communication skills to replace inappropriate actions. The study will explore innovative reinforcement strategies and evaluate how cognitive and behavioral factors influence treatment outcomes across different environments and situations.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this study could lead to more effective and sustainable interventions for children with challenging behaviors, improving their communication and self-control skills.
How similar studies have gone: Other studies have shown promise in using behavioral interventions for similar populations, but this approach incorporates novel techniques that have not been extensively tested.
Who can join: the full rules
Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
We will include individuals between the ages of 6 to 17 with IDD who have at least one topography of SPB that is maintained by social positive (e.g., attention, access to preferred items) reinforcement. The age range is driven by the need to maximize the number of participants; there is no evidence to suggest that age is a relevant variable regarding relapse of SPB.
Where it's running
-
Auburn University
Auburn, Alabama, United States Recruiting -
Kennedy Krieger Institute
Baltimore, Maryland, United States Not yet recruiting
Study contacts
- Principal investigator: John Falligant, PhD — Auburn University
- Study coordinator: John M Falligant, PhD
- Email: jmf0031@auburn.edu
- Phone: 334-844-4412
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How to take part
- Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
- Check the official listing on ClinicalTrials.gov for the latest contact details and recruitment status.
- Contact the study coordinator or principal investigator to ask for pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.