Developing an Intervention Facilitating the Use of Eye Contact in Adults With Autism

Launched by UMC UTRECHT · Apr 4, 2025

Keywords

ClinConnect Summary

This clinical trial is designed to help adults with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) improve their ability to make eye contact, which can sometimes be challenging for people with autism. The researchers aim to create a program that will make it easier for these individuals to engage in eye contact, helping them communicate better and connect with others. The study is currently looking for participants, including adults with autism, their family members or caregivers, and healthcare providers who work in autism centers in the Netherlands.

To be eligible, adults with autism need to be diagnosed according to recognized guidelines and be able to understand the study's topics. They should also be willing to participate. On the other hand, family members or caregivers do not need a formal diagnosis but should also be able to understand the discussions and be motivated to take part. Healthcare providers must work in an autism center and be willing to join the research. Participants can expect to take part in discussions and activities that focus on improving eye contact skills, and their involvement may help shape future support for others with autism.

Gender

ALL

Eligibility criteria

• • Inclusion criteria for adults with autism
• • Adults classified with autism, determined according to an internationally recognized classification system.
• • Outpatient treatment within a specialized autism center in the Netherlands.
• • Able to understand the topics to be discussed.
• • Motivation to participate in research.
• • Exclusion criteria for adults with autism
• • No good command of the Dutch language.
• • Use of alcohol and/or recreational drugs during the study.
• • Mentally too unstable to participate in the study.
• • Familiarity with treatment in the VGZ.
• • Inclusion criteria for those involved
• • Adults without DSM classification.
• • Living in the Netherlands.
• • Able to understand the topics to be discussed.
• • Motivation to participate in research.
• • Exclusion criteria for those involved
• • No good command of the Dutch language.
• • Use of alcohol and/or recreational drugs during the study.
• • Inclusion criteria for healthcare providers
• • Practicing psychiatrist, clinical psychologist or nurse specialist at an autism expertise center in the Netherlands.
• • Living in the Netherlands.
• • Motivation to participate in research.
• • Exclusion criteria for healthcare providers
• • - No good command of the Dutch language.