Behavior Therapy for Irritability in Autism

Launched by YALE UNIVERSITY · Dec 2, 2020

Keywords

ClinConnect Summary

This clinical trial, called Behavioral Therapy for Irritability and Aggression (BTIA), is looking for ways to help teenagers with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) manage their feelings and behaviors, especially when they feel frustrated or angry. The goal is to teach them skills to handle difficult situations as they move into adulthood. Families of adolescents with ASD may find this therapy beneficial, and the study will help researchers understand how effective it is.

To participate, boys and girls aged 12 to 18 with a diagnosis of autism spectrum disorder and who experience irritability or anger outbursts can apply. Participants should be living near New Haven, CT, and be stable on their current medications or medication-free. The trial is currently recruiting, and those who join can expect to engage in verbal therapy that focuses on building emotional regulation skills in a supportive environment. It’s important to note that individuals with certain medical or psychiatric conditions that need immediate attention may not be eligible for this study.

Gender

ALL

Eligibility criteria

• Inclusion Criteria:
• • Boys and girls, ages 12 to 18 years inclusive
• • Diagnosis of autism spectrum disorder
• • Presence of disruptive behaviors such as irritability and anger outbursts
• • No planned changes in the intensity of current treatment(s)
• • Medication free or on stable medication
• • Sufficient language for participation in verbal therapy
• • Lives within driving distance from New Haven, CT
• Exclusion Criteria:
• • Presence of a medical condition that would interfere with participation in the study
• • Presence of a current psychiatric disorder that requires immediate clinical attention