Reciprocal Imitation Training and Musical Rhythm Sensitivity in Autistic Toddlers
Musical Rhythm Sensitivity to Scaffold Social Engagement in Autism Spectrum Disorder
Who can join
18 Months – 36 Months · All sexes
Full eligibility criteria
Inclusion Criteria: * diagnosis of autism / autism spectrum disorder * 18-36 months of age Exclusion Criteria: * Major hearing or visual impairment (e.g., congenital nystagmus), seizure disorder, genetic syndromes, or gestational age \<=34 weeks.
About the study
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.
What is being tested
- Reciprocal Imitation Training (behavioral)
- music-enhanced Reciprocal Imitation Training (behavioral)
Sponsor: Vanderbilt University Medical Center · Participants: 40 · Started: Jul 3, 2023
Contact the study team
- Miriam Lense · Phone: 615-322-3086
Official record on ClinicalTrials.gov — NCT05880225
Locations in the U.S.
| Tennessee | Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nashville |
Conditions
From ClinicalTrials.gov, data retrieved Sep 30, 2026. Each study sets its own eligibility; the study team decides who can join.