Cumulative and Booster Effects of Multisession Prefrontal TDCS in ASD Adolescents

Launched by THE HONG KONG POLYTECHNIC UNIVERSITY · Feb 14, 2024

Keywords

ClinConnect Summary

This clinical trial is studying a treatment called transcranial direct current stimulation (tDCS) to see if it can help improve cognitive function and social skills in adolescents with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD). tDCS is a non-invasive method that gently stimulates specific areas of the brain using low electrical currents. The researchers want to find out if this treatment can reduce symptoms like anxiety, aggression, and inattention, and if additional "booster" sessions after the initial treatment can help maintain these positive effects over time.

To participate in the study, individuals must have a confirmed diagnosis of ASD from a clinical psychologist. They will be between the ages of 12 and 18 and will not have any other neurological or psychiatric disorders. During the trial, participants can expect to receive tDCS sessions and may be assessed for changes in their cognitive abilities and social interactions. This research is important because it could lead to new ways to support adolescents with ASD, helping them manage their symptoms and improve their daily lives.

Gender

ALL

Eligibility criteria

• Inclusion Criteria:
• • Individuals who are confirmed by a clinical psychologist based on the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders-5th Ed (DSM-V) criteria of Autism spectrum disorder and structured interview with their parents or primary caregivers on their developmental history using the Autism Diagnostic Interview-Revised (ADI-R).
• Exclusion Criteria:
• • Individuals without a confirmed diagnosis from the clinical psychologist, with a history of other neurological and psychiatric disorders and head trauma, or on psychiatric medication will be excluded from the study.