U-M researchers participate in $7 million study of autism

Once again the University of Michigan is blazing new research trails, employing some of its best minds to lead the charge against autism by developing early stage interventions.

The U-M and Florida State University are spearheading the research project with the help of a $7 million grant from the National Institute of Mental Health.

It’s commonly believed that early intervention is key to helping children with autism. This study will judge the effectiveness of intervention with 18-month-old toddlers.

“The future for children with autism is changing every day as we create more services to support their strengths and address or prevent difficulties,” says Catherine Lord, director of U-M’s Autism and Communications Disorders Center. “As we develop ways of identifying autism in younger and younger children, we must develop treatment methods and family supports that are appropriate for toddlers.”

The study will use 100 toddlers less than 18 months old who have been diagnosed with autism. Previous research has shown that children between the ages of 3 and 5 years old with autism have the best outcomes if they are actively engaged in intervention at least 25 hours a week

The researchers expect the study will provide important evidence of parent-implemented intervention for toddlers and will substantiate that autism screening for toddlers is crucial for families to access early intervention.

Source: University of Michigan
Writer: Jon Zemke