Neurodevelopmental Biomarkers of Late Diagnosis in Autism

Project Description

We are part of a team of Autism Centers of Excellence conducting a study of people on the autism spectrum to better understand their experience of diagnosis and their quality of life. Some participants are also being followed over time, to understand how people on the autism spectrum develop and change over time.  

The purpose of this research study is to discover why some people are diagnosed with autism early on, while others are not identified until later in their lives. We know that someone’s background may affect their experience of autism, and the kinds of supports they might need. We will use many different assessments and tools to better understand the timing of autism diagnosis.  

Who Can Participate

Autistic individuals who meet eligibility based on diagnostic screening scores and are 16-39 years old

Researchers

Principal Investigators

• Lauren Kenworthy, PhD - Children’s National Hospital
• Kevin Pelphrey, PhD - University of Virginia
• Allison Jack, PhD - George Mason University

Research Team

• Tara Anderson, Research Coordinator
• Elizabeth Black, Research Coordinator