Collaborative Problem-Solving for Autism
What You Need to Know Before You Apply
What is the purpose of this trial?
This trial tests a new remote training program called Pathways and Resources for Engagement and Participation (PREP) to help autistic teens and young adults develop problem-solving skills with a caregiver. The study aims to determine if this program is practical and well-received, while also conducting initial checks on its effectiveness. Participants will either start the program immediately or join a waitlist for 12 weeks before beginning. Those with autism who have at least one year left in high school and can engage in a back-and-forth conversation might be a good fit. As an unphased trial, this study offers a unique opportunity to contribute to innovative research that could enhance support for autistic individuals.
Do I need to stop my current medications to join the trial?
The trial information does not specify whether you need to stop taking your current medications. It's best to discuss this with the trial coordinators or your doctor.
What prior data suggests that this remote metacognitive strategy training is safe for transition-age autistic adolescents and young adults?
Research has shown that the Pathways and Resources for Engagement and Participation (PREP) program has been studied in various locations to assess its effectiveness in helping people with autism engage more in their communities. A review of different behavioral and educational programs for autism found these approaches to be generally safe and well-received. Although this review did not specifically examine PREP, it suggests that similar programs are usually well-tolerated.
The trial is in a "not applicable" phase, likely focusing on the program's practicality and acceptability rather than testing its safety, as in typical clinical trials. The remote version of PREP uses existing methods known to be low-risk, indicating it should be safe for participants. No reports of serious side effects have emerged from the studies reviewed, supporting this conclusion.12345Why are researchers excited about this trial?
Researchers are excited about the Collaborative Problem-Solving for Autism trial because it explores innovative ways to improve engagement and participation for those with autism. The primary focus is on remote metacognitive strategy training, which is a novel approach. Unlike traditional therapies that often require in-person sessions, this method can be done remotely, offering greater accessibility and convenience for families. Additionally, the waitlist control design allows participants to eventually gain access to the intervention, ensuring everyone benefits from this potentially impactful strategy. This trial aims to uncover new insights into enhancing cognitive and social skills in individuals with autism, possibly transforming current therapeutic practices.
What evidence suggests that the remote metacognitive strategy training is effective for autism?
Research has shown that the Pathways and Resources for Engagement and Participation (PREP) program, which participants in this trial may receive, can benefit autistic individuals. Similar programs using telemedicine to deliver Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) have succeeded with families of autistic children. These programs often improve communication skills and ease daily life. Early results suggest that programs like PREP, which emphasize collaborative problem-solving, can enhance social interaction skills. Overall, these interventions aim to improve life for autistic individuals and their families.56789
Who Is on the Research Team?
Melanie M. Tkach, PhD
Principal Investigator
University of Missouri-Columbia
Are You a Good Fit for This Trial?
This trial is for autistic adolescents or young adults and their primary caregiver. It's designed to test a remote intervention aimed at improving problem-solving skills.Inclusion Criteria
Exclusion Criteria
Timeline for a Trial Participant
Screening
Participants are screened for eligibility to participate in the trial
Baseline Assessment
AYA-caregiver dyads complete a baseline assessment of AYA activity performance, participation, and mental health
Treatment
Remote Metacognitive Strategy Training (PREP) is conducted for the intervention group
Waitlist Control
Waitlist control group waits without intervention before crossing over to treatment
Follow-up
Participants are monitored for safety and effectiveness after treatment
What Are the Treatments Tested in This Trial?
Interventions
- Pathways and Resources for Engagement and Participation (PREP)
Find a Clinic Near You
Who Is Running the Clinical Trial?
University of Missouri-Columbia
Lead Sponsor