Reliability Study Using Electrodermal Activity to Measure Sensory Processing in Children With and Without Autism Spectrum Disorder

Study Overview
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Brief Summary
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The purpose of this study is tTho establish test-retest reliability of electrodermal markers used to quantify physiologic response to sensation using the Sensory Challenge Protocol in children with and without Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD).

Detailed Description
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This methodological research design is a prospective exploratory test-retest design assessing the use of electrodermal activity (EDA) as an index of sensory processing. EDA will be measured using skin conductance response (SCR). The purpose of this study is to investigate if using EDA is a reliable measure over time within the context of response to sensation. Scores from test one and test two of each subject will be correlated to determine reliability of EDA measure. Reliability in this context will establish the utility of EDA as an index of sensory processing. Testing will occur two times within a six week period.

Official Title
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Reliability of Electrodermal Activity: Quantifying Sensory Processing in Children With Autism Spectrum Disorder

Conditions
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Autism Spectrum Disorder

Intervention / Treatment
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* Other: Sensory Challenge Protocol


Participation Criteria
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Eligibility Criteria
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Inclusion Criteria: Boys ages 4 - 11 years old. Able to sit for 30 minutes and follow simple directions. Children with confirmed Autism Spectrum Disorder via school records or parent report. Typically developing children free of medical or neurological conditions Exclusion Criteria: Medical or neurological conditions other than Autism. Hearing loss or visual impairments. Children taking medications known to affect arousal. Children who are not able to follow simple commands.

Ages Eligible for Study
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Minimum Age: 4 Years
Maximum Age: 11 Years

Sexes Eligible for Study
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Male

Accepts Healthy Volunteers
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Accepts Healthy Volunteers

Study Plan
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How is the study designed?
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Arms and Interventions

| Participant Group/Arm | Intervention/Treatment |
| --- | --- |
| Children with Autism Spectrum Disorder<br>Boys between the age of 4 to 11 years old with Autism Spectrum disorder will participate in the Sensory Challenge Protocol which will measure electrodermal activity in response to sensation. | Other: Sensory Challenge Protocol<br>* Measurement of electrodermal activity in response to sensation<br>|
| Typically Developing Children<br>typically developing boys between the age of 4 to 11 years will participate in the Sensory Challenge Protocol which will measure electrodermal activity in response to sensation. | Other: Sensory Challenge Protocol<br>* Measurement of electrodermal activity in response to sensation<br>|

What is the study measuring?
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Primary Outcome Measures

| Outcome Measure | Measure Description | Time Frame |
| --- | --- | --- |
| Electrodermal Activity in response to sensation |  | within six weeks |