News and Knowledge

In October 2012, the OAR Scientific Council approved 12 new studies for a total of $360,000 in funding through its annual applied research competition.  These efforts, which are now underway, are poised to advance our understanding of autism and how to effectively support those affected by the disorder.  Throughout 2013, The OARacle will feature “previews” of the studies beginning with two this month and progress updates as they occur.

Growing Up Aware: A Parent-Based Sexuality Intervention for Children with Autism Spectrum Disorders

Researcher: Michelle Sondra Ballan, Ph.D., Columbia University School of Social Work
Funding amount: $30,000; one-year grant period

This study focuses on healthy sexual development as it pertains to young people on the autism spectrum, who rarely receive adequate sexual education when compared to their typically developing peers, and the role of parents in providing appropriate information.  The researcher has already developed a five-week training program based on the principles of applied behavioral analysis (ABA), and intends to test whether or not it is an effective tool for parents with children ages 8 through 13.  The study will determine success based on changes across three separate measures:

• Parent attitudes and knowledge concerning their child’s sexuality
• Parent communication skills related to issues of sexuality
• Children’s awareness of their own sexuality

The researcher suggests that those young people who retain the knowledge and skills imparted during the five-week program may have an easier time navigating the transition to adolescence and subsequent maturation processes.

Identifying Disparities in Access to Treatment for Young Children with Autism

Researcher: Lucy Bilaver, Ph.D., Chapin Hall at the University of Chicago
Funding amount: $29,990; one-year grant period

The purpose of this study is to determine which factors influence whether or not a child with autism can access critical services such as behavior therapy, speech therapy, and guidance from a psychologist or other mental health professional.  Previous research has focused on similar factors (race, geographic region, socioeconomic status, type of health insurance, etc.) at the time of initial diagnosis, but this study looks at data from a large national sample of children ages 3 through 5.

The researcher hopes that the results will shed light on potential target groups for future autism-related interventions, so as to better allocate limited resources and address the unmet needs of children and families affected by the disorder.