Remote problem-solving program for autistic teens and their caregiver
The Effect of Dyadic Metacognitive Strategy Training in Autistic Youth or Young Adults and a Primary Caregiver
NA · University of Missouri-Columbia · NCT07216196
This project will test a remote problem‑solving program (PREP) for autistic adolescents and young adults ages 13–21 together with a primary caregiver to help with independence and transition skills.
Quick facts
| Phase | NA |
|---|---|
| Study type | Interventional |
| Enrollment | 24 (estimated) |
| Ages | 13 Years to 21 Years |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | University of Missouri-Columbia (other) |
| Locations | 1 site (Columbia, Missouri) |
| Trial ID | NCT07216196 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this trial studies
This trial delivers PREP, a metacognitive problem‑solving and environmental‑modification intervention, remotely to dyads of autistic adolescents or young adults and a primary caregiver. Participants set family‑chosen goals and work with clinicians on activity or environment changes rather than isolated skill drills. The study primarily measures feasibility and acceptability and includes limited efficacy testing on participation, health, and transition outcomes, using a waitlist crossover design. Sessions are conducted remotely and outcomes are measured by standardized participation and well‑being instruments.
Who should consider this trial
Good fit: Autistic adolescents aged 13–21 who have at least one year remaining in high school, can engage in reciprocal conversation, and have a primary caregiver willing to participate are ideal candidates.
Not a fit: Those with severe or profound intellectual disability (IQ <35), severe mental health conditions that prevent participation, or already enrolled in overlapping community transition services may not benefit.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, the program could improve day‑to‑day independence, participation, and smoother transitions to adulthood for autistic youth and reduce caregiver burden.
How similar studies have performed: PREP has shown improvements in activity performance and participation for youths with physical disabilities and autistic children ages 6–12, but it has not been rigorously tested in autistic adolescents or young adults.
Eligibility criteria
Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria: * Autistic adolescents aged 13-21 AND one primary parent, guardian, or caregiver aged 18 or older * At least one year remaining in high school * Ability to engage in reciprocal conversation * Ability to provide informed consent/assent as part of an adapted procedure designed to prevent coercion and protect the rights of autistic adolescents with or without intellectual disability Exclusion Criteria: * Severe or profound intellectual disability (IQ\<35) * Severe mental health conditions that interfere with ability to participate in the intervention * Currently enrolled in community-based transition services redundant with remote PREP
Where this trial is running
Columbia, Missouri
- University of Missouri - Columbia — Columbia, Missouri, United States (RECRUITING)
Study contacts
- Principal investigator: Melanie M. Tkach, PhD — University of Missouri-Columbia
- Study coordinator: Melanie M. Tkach, PhD
- Email: melanie.tkach@health.missouri.edu
- Phone: 573-882-0992
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.
Conditions: Autism, Occupational Therapy, Transition to Adulthood, Waitlist Crossover