Reciprocal Imitation Training and Musical Rhythm Sensitivity in Autistic Toddlers

Description

The primary goal of this study is to examine rhythm sensitivity as a predictor of response to naturalistic developmental behavioral intervention (NDBIs) in autistic toddlers. Toddlers receive either Reciprocal Imitation Training (RIT), an evidence-based NDBI that supports children's imitation and social communication skills, or a music-enhanced version of RIT. Throughout their participation in the intervention, toddlers will complete study procedures of viewing naturalistic videos of infant-directed singing and other social scenes while eye gaze data is collected.

Conditions

Autism, Autism Spectrum Disorder

Study Overview

Study Details

Study overview

The primary goal of this study is to examine rhythm sensitivity as a predictor of response to naturalistic developmental behavioral intervention (NDBIs) in autistic toddlers. Toddlers receive either Reciprocal Imitation Training (RIT), an evidence-based NDBI that supports children's imitation and social communication skills, or a music-enhanced version of RIT. Throughout their participation in the intervention, toddlers will complete study procedures of viewing naturalistic videos of infant-directed singing and other social scenes while eye gaze data is collected.

Musical Rhythm Sensitivity to Scaffold Social Engagement in Autism Spectrum Disorder

Reciprocal Imitation Training and Musical Rhythm Sensitivity in Autistic Toddlers

Condition
Autism
Intervention / Treatment

-

Contacts and Locations

Nashville

Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nashville, Tennessee, United States, 37232

Participation Criteria

Researchers look for people who fit a certain description, called eligibility criteria. Some examples of these criteria are a person's general health condition or prior treatments.

For general information about clinical research, read Learn About Studies.

Eligibility Criteria

  • * diagnosis of autism / autism spectrum disorder
  • * 18-36 months of age
  • * Major hearing or visual impairment (e.g., congenital nystagmus), seizure disorder, genetic syndromes, or gestational age \<=34 weeks.

Ages Eligible for Study

18 Months to 36 Months

Sexes Eligible for Study

ALL

Accepts Healthy Volunteers

No

Collaborators and Investigators

Vanderbilt University Medical Center,

Miriam Lense, PRINCIPAL_INVESTIGATOR, Vanderbilt University Medical Center

Warren Jones, PRINCIPAL_INVESTIGATOR, Emory University

Study Record Dates

2026-04-30