Manualized Assessment and Treatment Model of Challenging Behavior

Launched by RUTGERS, THE STATE UNIVERSITY OF NEW JERSEY · Jun 28, 2023

Keywords

ClinConnect Summary

This clinical trial is focused on finding better ways to assess and treat challenging behaviors, such as aggression and self-injury, in children and young adults. Researchers are testing a standardized guide that aims to improve how these behaviors are managed, building on existing methods that have shown promise. The study is currently recruiting participants aged 3 to 17 who struggle with these behaviors at least 10 times a day and have not found success with previous treatments.

To be eligible, children must have stable support systems in place, like protective gear for self-injury, and should be on a consistent medication plan. During the trial, participants can expect thorough assessments and tailored interventions based on the manualized approach being tested. It's important to note that some conditions and current treatments may exclude individuals from participating to ensure safety and the best outcomes during the study. This trial represents a step toward a more effective and evidence-based approach to managing challenging behaviors in young people.

Gender

ALL

Eligibility criteria

• Inclusion Criteria:
• • 1. children from ages 3 to 17;
• • 2. challenging behavior that occurs at least 10 times a day, despite previous treatment;
• • 3. challenging behavior maintained by social positive or automatic reinforcement;
• • 4. stable protective supports for self-injurious behavior (e.g., helmet) with no anticipated changes during enrollment;
• • 5. on a stable psychoactive drug regimen for at least 10 half-lives per drug or drug free;
• • 6. stable educational plan and placement with no anticipated changes during the child's treatment.
• Exclusion Criteria:
• • 1. patients who do not meet the inclusion criteria;
• • 2. patients currently receiving 15 or more hours per week of treatment for their challenging behavior;
• • 3. DSM-5 diagnosis of Rett syndrome or other degenerative conditions (e.g., inborn error of metabolism);
• • 4. a comorbid health condition or major mental disorder that would interfere with study participation;
• • 5. occurrence of self-injury during study assessments that presents a risk of serious or permanent harm (e.g., detached retinas) based on our routine clinical-risk assessment (Betz, 2011);
• • 6. patients requiring changes to protective supports for self-injury or drug treatment, but the investigators will invite these patients to participate when protective supports and drug regimen are stable.