Autism Caregiver Coaching in Africa

Launched by DUKE UNIVERSITY · Sep 20, 2022

Keywords

ClinConnect Summary

This clinical trial, called "Autism Caregiver Coaching in Africa," is looking at how coaching for caregivers can help improve the lives of young children with autism. The study will involve teaching caregivers simple strategies they can use in their everyday activities with their autistic children. This approach aims to provide support and enhance the quality of life for these children in local communities.

To participate in the trial, children need to be between 18 and 72 months old and must meet specific criteria for autism. Caregivers should be at least 18 years old and speak one of the following languages: isiXhosa, isiZulu, Afrikaans, or English. The study is open to all genders and focuses on families of African or Coloured descent living in the recruitment area. Participants can expect to attend assessments and 12 coaching sessions, where they will learn and practice new strategies to support their child’s development. This trial is currently in the recruiting stage, and it offers a valuable opportunity for families seeking support for their young children with autism.

Gender

ALL

Eligibility criteria

• Inclusion Criteria:
• • Child's age is 18-72 months
• • Child meets DSM-5 criteria for autism spectrum disorder (ASD), informed by Autism Diagnostic Observation Schedule, Second Edition (ADOS-2)
• • Child's caregiver speaks isiXhosa, isiZulu, Afrikaans, or English
• • Child's race is African or Coloured (South African term for mixed race)
• • Caregiver-child dyad live in recruitment area
• • Caregiver is ≥18 years
• Exclusion Criteria:
• • Genetic disorder of known etiology (e.g., fragile X syndrome)
• • Significant sensory or motor impairment that would preclude use of the play materials
• • Major physical abnormalities that would interfere with participation in the intervention
• • History of serious head injury and/or neurological disease
• • Caregiver indicates they will be unable to attend assessments and 12 sessions