PITTSBURGH, Jan. 21 Researchers at the University of Pittsburgh Early Autism Study are seeking infants ages 6 to 16 months who have an older sibling diagnosed with an autism spectrum disorder (ASD) to look for infant behaviors that may predict a later ASD diagnosis. Prior research has shown that family home videos of children later diagnosed with ASD suggest that diagnostic signs of ASD may emerge within the first year of life.
Participants will meet with the researchers at Pitt's Infant and Toddler Development Center in Oakland, where they will view photos and films while an infrared camera records how the babies watch the visual content. Research visits also will be conducted at the participants' homes, where trained staff will observe the infants during everyday activities and playtime with parents. All parents will be asked to complete questionnaires concerning family history and their child's development. Screenings and assessments for autism symptoms will be provided at no cost for infants between the ages of 18 and 48 months.
The study has been funded by the National Institutes of Health. Compensation, including parking fees, will be provided for eligible participants. For additional information or to discuss eligibility for participation in the study, please contact 1-866-647-3436 or autismrecruiter@upmc.edu. All calls and emails are confidential.
