Motivation Treatments for Autism Spectrum Disorder
What You Need to Know Before You Apply
What is the purpose of this trial?
This trial aims to help autistic teens and young adults enhance their motivation to complete daily living skills. Researchers will test three treatments: one focusing on internal motivation, another on external motivation, and a third combining both approaches. Participants will engage in therapy sessions and work with an "Important Person" from their life who can support them. This trial suits those with an autism diagnosis who wish to improve their ability to persist with challenging daily tasks. As an unphased trial, it offers a unique opportunity for participants to explore innovative approaches to motivation and daily living skills.
Do I have to stop taking my current medications for this trial?
The trial does not specify if you need to stop taking your current medications, but it mentions that changes to your mental health treatment plan, like starting or stopping medications, are not allowed during the study.
Is there any evidence suggesting that this trial's treatments are likely to be safe?
Research has shown that motivation treatments for people with autism are generally safe and well-received. Studies on motivation in Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) therapy demonstrate that using motivation to influence behaviors and enhance learning is both effective and safe. These methods often aim to boost internal motivation by helping individuals link their personal values to their goals.
Additionally, combining internal and external motivation has been explored using strategies like rewards. These methods are tailored to each person's needs, often leading to positive results without major side effects.
Since this trial uses well-known motivation techniques, the treatments are expected to be safe for participants. An "Important Person" supports participants, adding extra safety and encouragement, and creating a supportive environment. Overall, participants can expect these motivation treatments to be a safe and helpful way to improve their daily living skills.12345Why are researchers excited about this trial's treatments?
Researchers are excited about these motivation treatments for Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) because they offer a fresh approach to enhancing daily living skills. Unlike typical interventions that might focus on behavioral therapies or skill-building exercises, the Intrinsic Motivation Treatment dives deep into personal reasons that drive individuals toward independence. Meanwhile, the Extrinsic Motivation Treatment taps into external motivators, like rewarding oneself with something enjoyable, to boost motivation. The Combined Intrinsic and Extrinsic Motivation Treatment merges both strategies, potentially offering a more comprehensive boost in motivation. These approaches are unique because they focus on individual motivation sources, aiming to empower those with ASD by aligning with their personal and external motivators.
What evidence suggests that this trial's treatments could be effective for enhancing motivation in autistic teens and young adults?
This trial will compare different motivation treatments for autism spectrum disorder. Research has shown that focusing on personal reasons and values, known as intrinsic motivation, can help people with autism improve their behavior and learning. Participants in the Intrinsic Motivation Treatment arm will explore these personal reasons. Activities that engage a child's intrinsic motivation often lead to better outcomes.
Another arm, the Extrinsic Motivation Treatment, uses external motivators, like rewards, to enhance motivation. Studies suggest that combining intrinsic motivation with external motivators can improve emotion control and motivation in autistic individuals. Participants in the Combined Intrinsic and Extrinsic Motivation Treatment arm will explore both personal values and external rewards. By understanding both personal values and external rewards, autistic teens and young adults may feel more encouraged to complete daily tasks. These methods aim to empower individuals by linking their personal goals with motivating factors.16789Who Is on the Research Team?
Benjamin E Yerys, PhD
Principal Investigator
Children's Hospital of Philadelphia
Are You a Good Fit for This Trial?
This trial is for autistic teens and young adults aged 16-25 who can communicate in full sentences in English. They must have an autism diagnosis confirmed by a qualified provider, agree to audio and video recording of sessions, provide informed consent, and involve an 'Important Person' who will support them.Inclusion Criteria
Timeline for a Trial Participant
Screening and Consent
Participants are screened for eligibility to participate in the trial
Intervention
Participants complete five 'talk' therapy sessions focusing on motivation strategies, with IPs joining the last 15 minutes of each session
Follow-up
Participants and their IPs complete final questionnaires to assess motivation and empowerment
What Are the Treatments Tested in This Trial?
Interventions
- Motivation for Daily Living Skills
Find a Clinic Near You
Who Is Running the Clinical Trial?
Children's Hospital of Philadelphia
Lead Sponsor