Feasibility and Effectiveness of Computerized Cognitive Training in Adolescents With Autism Spectrum Disorder

Launched by MASSACHUSETTS GENERAL HOSPITAL · Jun 11, 2015

Keywords

ClinConnect Summary

Given the limited options for treatments to improve the core symptoms of autism spectrum disorder (ASD), strategies that could target secondary features of the condition and improve quality of life for affected individuals are critical. Neuroplasticity-based cognitive training has been found to improve cognition in youth with attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) and in adults with schizophrenia. In this trial, the investigators are seeking to extend the relevance of computerized cognitive training to youth with ASD. Given the literature, the investigators hypothesize that compute...

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Eligibility criteria

• Inclusion Criteria:
• • 1. Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM)-5 ASD or previously diagnosed DSM-IV autistic disorder, Asperger's disorder or pervasive developmental disorder not otherwise specified (NOS) and who continue to manifest symptoms in core domains
• • 2. Current ASD symptomatology at time of enrollment
• • 3. Evidence of decrements in at least one of three target cognitive domains (mental flexibility/abstraction, working memory, or attention).
• Exclusion Criteria:
• • 1. Intellectual Disability
• • 2. A known comorbid neurodevelopmental disorder with possible association with autism (i.e., fragile X syndrome, tuberous sclerosis, Angelman syndrome, Prader-Willi syndrome, Williams syndrome, neurofibromatosis, mitochondrial disorder).
• • 3. Nonverbal or minimal verbal ability
• • 4. No computer/internet connection at home
• • 5. No family member with e-mail
• • 6. Patients likely to have a change in therapeutic treatments within the next 6 weeks