Aut-CARE Intervention to Improve Cognitive and Emotional Functioning in Young Adults on the Autism Spectrum

Launched by FUNDACIÓ INSTITUT DE RECERCA DE L'HOSPITAL DE LA SANTA CREU I SANT PAU · Jun 19, 2025

Keywords

ClinConnect Summary

This clinical trial is studying a new program called Aut-CARE, designed to help young adults on the autism spectrum improve how they handle emotions and think through daily challenges. Many autistic youths find it hard to adjust to school or work because of difficulties with managing feelings and organizing tasks, which can lead to anxiety or depression. This study will first assess these emotional and thinking skills using different tests and personal feedback. The information gathered will help create a support program that focuses not only on thinking skills and social abilities but also on helping participants better manage their emotions and adapt to everyday life. Importantly, this program includes both males and females, making it more inclusive than some other studies that mostly focus on males.

Young adults aged 16 to 30 who have been diagnosed with autism (levels 1 or 2) and have average or above-average intelligence (IQ over 80) can take part if they are involved with the Friends Foundation’s services, such as their educational or work-related programs. Participants can expect to complete assessments about their emotions and thinking skills, which will guide the development of the new program aimed at improving their social and work life experiences. There are no specific health restrictions beyond these criteria, making it accessible to many young people within this group. This study hopes to create a more realistic and helpful approach to support autistic young adults in living fuller, more independent lives.

Gender

ALL

Eligibility criteria

• Inclusion Criteria:
• • Subjects aged 16 to 30 years (male, female, and non-binary)
• • Attending one or more services of the Friends Foundation (Prelaboral Friends, Laboral Friends, and EducaFriends).
• • Diagnosed with ASD (according to DSM-5 criteria), levels 1 or 2, and without intellectual disability (IQ \> 80).
• Exclusion Criteria:
• • None