RecruitingNot ApplicableNCT06066983

DINO RCT - Treating Anxiety in Children With Autism

Treating Anxiety in Young Children With Autism

Sponsor

Hugo W. Moser Research Institute at Kennedy Krieger, Inc.

Enrollment

70 participants

Start Date

Jan 2, 2024

Study Type

INTERVENTIONAL

Conditions

Autism Spectrum Disorder Anxiety Disorders

Summary

Anxiety is prevalent in young children, under 7 years of age, with autism. Yet, few studies have examined anxiety interventions for this age range, and only one anxiety treatment study has included young children with cognitive and language delays. Anxiety treatment models utilizing cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), adapted for children with autism, are empirically supported in school-age autistic children. Further, preliminary evidence suggests CBT approaches may reduce intolerance of uncertainty (IU), a mechanistic construct that may contribute to the maintenance of anxiety in autistic children. This study seeks to address the existing gap in anxiety treatment by examining the feasibility and preliminary efficacy of a novel, telehealth CBT intervention, DINO Strategies for Anxiety and intolerance of Uncertainty Reduction (DINOSAUR), which targets both anxiety and IU in young autistic children.

Eligibility

Min Age: 4 YearsMax Age: 6 Years

Plain Language Summary

Simplified for easier understanding

This study (called DINO RCT) tests a therapy program to help reduce anxiety in young children (ages 4–6) diagnosed with autism spectrum disorder (ASD). Anxiety is very common in children with autism but is often undertreated. **You may be eligible if...** - Your child is between 4 years 0 months and 6 years 11 months old - Your child has a confirmed autism spectrum disorder (ASD) diagnosis - Your child shows clinically significant anxiety symptoms - Your child has an IQ above 60 and language development equivalent to at least 36 months - You (the parent or caregiver) are available and willing to attend a 14-week program - Your child can walk independently **You may NOT be eligible if...** - Your child's primary language is not English - Your child is in foster care - Your child has a significant neurological or genetic condition (e.g., epilepsy, Down syndrome, fragile X) - Your child has severe vision or motor impairments Talk to your doctor to see if this trial is right for you.

This summary was AI-generated to explain the trial in plain language. It is not medical advice. Always discuss eligibility with your doctor before enrolling in a clinical trial.

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