Using a mobile app to help manage challenging behaviors in children with autism
Investigating the Impact of an Emotional Stress Alarm App (KeepCalm) on Managing Stress and Preventing Challenging Behaviors in Children With Autism
This study is testing a new mobile app that helps teachers manage challenging behaviors in children with autism by tracking their heart rate and providing personalized strategies for emotional support.
Quick facts
| Phase | Not applicable |
|---|---|
| Study type | Interventional |
| Enrollment | 20 (estimated) |
| Ages | 3 Years to 13 Years |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | University of Pennsylvania Academic / other |
| Locations | 1 site (Philadelphia, Pennsylvania) |
| Trial ID | NCT05277194 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this trial studies
This project aims to develop and pilot test the KeepCalm mobile health application, which utilizes heart rate tracking to assist teachers in managing challenging behaviors in children with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD). The app will provide personalized strategies for emotion regulation, helping educators identify stress triggers and track behavioral progress. By integrating physiological measurements with behavioral strategies, the study seeks to enhance the effectiveness of interventions for children exhibiting challenging behaviors. The research will also assess the app's acceptability and feasibility among educational teams.
Who should consider this trial
Good fit: Ideal candidates include preschool or elementary school children diagnosed with autism who exhibit challenging behaviors, along with their parents and teachers.
Not a fit: Children who do not exhibit challenging behaviors will not benefit from this intervention.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this app could significantly improve the management of challenging behaviors in children with autism, leading to better outcomes for both children and educators.
How similar studies have performed: Previous studies have shown promise in using digital health tools for managing behaviors in children with autism, suggesting potential for success in this novel approach.
Eligibility criteria
Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria: * Preschool or elementary school child with autism along with a parent and teacher and/or classroom aide * Child must have challenging behaviors including but not limited to aggression, escape behavior, loud noises, non-compliance, property destruction, rigid/inflexible behavior, self-injury, and transition difficulties * Adult participants must have access to an iPhone in order to test the app or be willing to use a provided study iPhone Exclusion Criteria: * Child does not exhibit challenging behaviors
Where this trial is running
Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
- University of Pennsylvania — Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, United States (Recruiting)
Study contacts
- Study coordinator: Heather J Nuske, PhD
- Email: Heather.Nuske@pennmedicine.upenn.edu
- Phone: 2157466041
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.