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Pubertal, Psychosocial and Physiological Development in Females with Autism

September 1, 2022 - December 1, 2023

Through this study, the SENSE Lab hopes to learn more about the unique and challenging process of puberty in females with ASD and provide information to families and caretakers in order to make the transition from childhood to adulthood easier. This study aims to understand and track puberty in females with and without ASD so clinicians are able to provide meaningful approaches and interventions in the future during this critical time period.

What are the goals of the study?

The mission of the SENSE (Social Emotional NeuroScience Endocrinology) Lab is to better understand the social and emotional functioning of youth autism and to translate findings into meaningful approaches and interventions. Significant physical, psychological, hormonal and social changes occur during pubertal development. Adolescence may be uniquely challenging for girls especially those with autism spectrum disorder (ASD). The goal of our study of girls with autism or typical development is to promote, understand, build, enrich, respect, and track youth.

What will happen during the visit or online?

Participants will come to Vanderbilt University Medical Center once a year for four years. Each visit includes a physical exam, blood draw, brief psychological exam, brief social interaction, and EEG. Participants will be expected to take saliva samples at home prior to study visits and complete menstrual tracking surveys.

How will this help families?

This study will help provide vital information regarding puberty in females with ASD and help families further understand the unique timing and tempo of puberty in autistic females. In addition to study compensation, families will receive annual research letters of standardized measure results and an annual symposia on topics related to pubertal development and ASD will be provided for families. We aim to be available to families for questions and concerns relevant to the focus of the study; namely, adolescence, puberty, and mental health. If developmental needs arise, our multidisciplinary team will do our best to provide support.

Eligibility Criteria

Females, 6-12 years old with suspected or confirmed:
-Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD)
-Typical Development (TD)
-Intellectual Disability (ID)

View the study flyer here.

Contact Information

Rachel Calvosa, senselab@vumc.org, 615-322-4132

Research Study Website
Vanderbilt University Medical Center SENSE Lab

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