Reciprocal Imitation Training for Autism
Trial Summary
What is the purpose of this trial?
This study is evaluating whether a parent-mediated intervention can improve outcomes for children with autism.
Will I have to stop taking my current medications?
The trial information does not specify whether participants need to stop taking their current medications.
What data supports the effectiveness of the treatment Reciprocal Imitation Training for Autism?
Research shows that Reciprocal Imitation Training (RIT) helps young children with autism improve their ability to imitate gestures and play actions. Studies found that children who received RIT made significant gains in both elicited and spontaneous imitation skills, and these improvements were maintained over time and in different settings.12345
How is Reciprocal Imitation Training different from other treatments for autism?
Reciprocal Imitation Training (RIT) is unique because it is a naturalistic intervention that focuses on teaching imitation skills during play, which helps children with autism improve their social and communication abilities. Unlike some other treatments, RIT can be easily taught to parents to use at home, making it more accessible and practical for everyday use.13456
Research Team
Wendy Stone, PhD
Principal Investigator
University of Washington
Eligibility Criteria
This trial is for children with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) or social communication impairments who attend weekly sessions with a provider. Parents or guardians must be over 18, speak English or Spanish, and have not received Reciprocal Imitation Training (RIT) before. Children with visual, hearing, or motor conditions that affect RIT participation are excluded.Inclusion Criteria
Exclusion Criteria
Timeline
Screening
Participants are screened for eligibility to participate in the trial
Training and Initial Assessment
EI providers receive intensive training in RIT and parent coaching, and baseline assessments are conducted for children and families.
Active Treatment
Providers use the CI-RIT intervention with enrolled families, with monthly videotaped sessions for fidelity scoring and monthly consultations.
Follow-up
Participants are monitored for improvements in child and caregiver outcomes, with assessments at 4 and 9 months post-baseline.
Treatment Details
Interventions
- Reciprocal Imitation Training
Find a Clinic Near You
Who Is Running the Clinical Trial?
University of Washington
Lead Sponsor
Michigan State University
Collaborator
National Institute of Mental Health (NIMH)
Collaborator
Rush University Medical Center
Collaborator
University of Massachusetts, Boston
Collaborator