N/A
Completed N=48
Group Depression Treatment for Autistic Youth
Source: ClinicalTrials.gov NCT05430022 ↗Enrolled (actual)
48
Serious AEs
0.0%
Results posted
Nov 2024
Primary outcomePrimary: Change in Severity of Adolescent Depressive Symptoms, Self-report — 8.14 T-score
Summary
Higher rates of depression are reported by autistic adolescents as compared to their non-autistic peers, which is problematic given adverse outcomes (e.g., negative self-esteem, lower academic performance) that are associated with depression. Despite the alarming rates of depression in autistic youth and associated safety concerns, few treatments have been developed. In this study, we investigate the feasibility, acceptability, and preliminary efficacy of an autism-adapted group cognitive-behavioral treatment for autistic adolescents (11-17 years old; middle and high school) in a pilot, nonrandomized trial. Specifically, we aim to increase adolescents' perception and understanding of self, including autistic identity, in order to treat depression. Intervention design and implementation were guided by autistic self-advocates and parents.
Outcome Measures
| Outcome | Result | p-value |
|---|---|---|
| PRIMARY Change in Severity of Adolescent Depressive Symptoms, Self-report |
8.14 | — |
| PRIMARY Change in Severity of Adolescent Depressive Symptoms, Parent-report |
3.42 | — |
Eligibility Criteria
Adolescent Inclusion Criteria:
- 11 to 17 years of age (middle or high school)
- Diagnosis of Autism Spectrum Disorder
- Average to above-average intellectual functioning
- Willing to attend study visits and participate in weekly group intervention
Adolescent Exclusion Criteria:
- No diagnosis of Autism Spectrum Disorder
- Comorbid intellectual impairment (FSIQ < 70), as the study protocol and assessments are not designed, and thus not appropriate, for this population.
- Severe medical conditions (e.g., uncontrolled seizures) and/or genetic disorders (e.g., Fragile X syndrome).
- Unwilling to attend study visits or weekly group intervention sessions.
- Significant aggression to self/others
- Significant active suicidal thoughts with intent/plan requiring higher-level care
Parent Inclusion Criteria:
- At least 18 years of age and a parent or legal guardian of the adolescent participant with ASD.
- Able to provide current and historical observations of the functioning of the participant with ASD based on self report from parent. Similarly, parent must live in close proximity to and have frequent contact with the participant with ASD.
- Willing to complete questionnaires about their own functioning and that of their child with ASD.
Parent Exclusion Criteria:
-Parents of adolescents with ASD who do not have frequent contact with the participant with ASD and/or unable to provide current and historical observations of the functioning of the participant with ASD.
Data sourced from ClinicalTrials.gov (NCT05430022). Outcome figures and adverse-event rates are extracted automatically from the registry's posted results and are provided for clinician reference, not as a substitute for the primary publication. Informational only — not medical advice.