The Center for Human Development Research

Research Study On Physiological Measures of Autism

Purpose of the Research Study

Although autism is being diagnosed in a growing number of children, its causes are still poorly understood. In this new study, we will look for evidence that boys and girls with autism have differences in their ears, brain, and fingers that could mean they have been affected by abnormal amounts of male hormones, called androgens, before birth. We will also determine whether these physical characteristics are related to autistic behaviors. This study will be important to understanding how early physical differences might affect development in autism, and it will also contribute to our understanding of how girls with autism may be different from boys with autism.

Who is Eligible?

Children and adolescents between the ages of 10 and 18 years old who have a previous diagnosis of Autistic Disorder and have IQs above 85.

Participants may not be eligible if they have any of the following:

1. Serious sensory or motor deficits (e.g., blindness, severe cerebral palsy).
2. Serious neurological disorders (e.g., epilepsy, stroke) or history of serious brain injury.
3. Down Syndrome, Fragile X Syndrome, Tourette’s Disorder, or Fetal Alcohol Syndrome.
4. History of identified severe psychopathology (e.g., Schizophrenia, Bipolar Disorder).

What is involved?

If interested in participating in this research study, a parent or a legal guardian can contact us for an initial screening. This brief screening will involve questions about your child's behaviors and symptoms. Children who meet the research criteria will be invited to undergo psychological and hearing testing that will take 1 or 2 visits, lasting approximately 4 hours in total. Participants who meet our research criteria for Autism will then be invited to return for the physiological measures. This special testing takes about 2 hours. We will take measurements inside your child’s ears, using a small foam-covered microphone that is inserted in the ear canal. We will also measure “brain waves,” using 4 small electrodes placed on your child’s head, while your child is listening to sounds through headphones. In addition, you will be asked to fill out questionnaires about your child’s behavior.

Results of all testing is confidential, and participants have the right to withdraw at any time. All risks, benefits, and requirements will be thoroughly explained prior to participation. There is no cost to participate. This study has been approved by the Committee for Protection of Human Subjects at the University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston.

What will I receive, if eligible to participate in this research study?

* A psychoeducational/psychological assessment with a written report for the parent/guardian at no cost.
* A free hearing test, with a referral if the screening test is failed.
* Some compensation for your time (if invited to return for the physiological measures).

Where does this research study take place?

We are located in the Texas Medical Center in Houston and are part of the University of Texas Health Science Center. Our physical address is:

The University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston
Mental Sciences Institute
Center for Human Development Research
1300 Moursund
Houston,TX 77030

Click here for our map

Parking is available at no cost to the participants in the front of the Mental Sciences Institute building (lot CC).

Who do I contact?

For further information and to find out if your child is eligible to participate, please call Rosleen Mansour at 713-500-2591 or you may email Rosleen.Mansour@uth.tmc.edu.

You may print out our flyer by clicking on the link below.

PDF Flyer

Principal Investigator

Katherine A. Loveland, Ph.D.
Professor of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences
Center for Human Development Research
The University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston

Co-investigators

Dennis McFadden, Ph.D.
Ashbel Smith Professor in Experimental Psychology
The University of Texas at Austin

Deborah A. Pearson, Ph.D.
Professor of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences
Center for Human Development Research
The University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston