Research

Early Cognitive Processes in Children with Autism

Protocol Description

This study explores the way children with autism learn to identify things as being part of a category. For example, how do they know that dogs and cats are animals and that cars and trucks are vehicles? Researchers will study the category choices made by study participants following an observed action. Researchers will also observe how children learn about different properties of certain objects and how young children with autism come to identify goal-directed action in relation to animate and inanimate things. The goal is to better understand the relationship between these early cognitive abilities and behaviors associated with autism.

Eligibility Criteria

Children with autism of both genders, ages 18 to 48 months, are eligible for consideration in the study.
Boys: 18 to 48 months
Girls: 18 to 48 months

Requirements
Diagnostic and traditional cognitive assessments will be completed. Each participant will be videotaped as he or she plays with and moves special toys. The first part of the study requires 30 to 45 minutes and the second part lasts around 15 minutes.
Visits: 2
Duration: Appointments scheduled at participants’ convenience

Status: Open for Enrollment

Co-Investigator
Cynthia Johnson, PhD