NCT07278544 · Joel E. Ringdahl
Harnessing Communication Preferences
What this study is about
The goal of this clinical trial is to evaluate how preference for communication approach (e.g., using a touch talker versus picture cards) impacts treatment maintenance in the context of treatment to reduce challenging behavior exhibited by individuals with intellectual and/or developmental disabilities.
View original scientific description
The goal of this clinical trial is to evaluate how preference for communication approach (e.g., using a touch talker versus picture cards) impacts treatment maintenance in the context of treatment to reduce challenging behavior exhibited by individuals with intellectual and/or developmental disabilities. As well, the clinical trial will evaluate how this preference impacts treatment relapse when care providers implement intervention and will identify potential demographic variables (e.g., age and symptom severity) that affect outcomes. The main question\[s\] it aims to answer \[is/are\]: Preferred communication strategies will persist to a greater extent when intervention is disrupted, relative to less preferred communication strategies. Communication modality preference will increase persistence for individuals with lower pre-experimental symptom severity scores and higher pre-experimental communication functioning scores. We predict demographic characteristics and developmental level will not impact intervention outcomes. Two groups will be compared. Group 1 will receive initial intervention using a preferred communication strategy. Group 2 will receive initial intervention using a non preferred, but effective, communication strategy. Intervention type will then be reversed. Researchers will compare preferred and non preferred interventions on continued expression of the communication strategy when intervention is challenged. Participants will exhibit alternative appropriate communicative behavior as a means of replacing/reducing challenging behavior. This will take place using (a) preferred communication strategies and (b) non preferred communication strategies. Following successful intervention with each type of communication, intervention will be challenged and continued use of the communication strategy will be measured.
Interventions
BEHAVIORAL
PrefFCT
Differential reinforcement of alternative communication and extinction of challenging behavior.
BEHAVIORAL
NonPrefFCT
Differential reinforcement of alternative communication and extinction of challenging behavior.
Primary outcome measures
Persistence of Communication
Time frame: Change in level of communication from baseline to 6 weeks post baseline.
Response rate as the average of the communication rate during treatment disruption.
Who can participate
This study lists these criteria on ClinicalTrials.gov. A study coordinator reviews eligibility during screening — this page does not determine whether you qualify.
Inclusion criteria
- 2 years old and older.
- Diagnosis of intellectual or developmental disability.
- Referred for assessment and treatment of challenging behavior.
Exclusion criteria
- Challenging behavior does not occur within the context of structured assessment, eliminating the ability to identify its operant function, or the behavior is deemed too dangerous to safely observe during assessment.
- Communicate functionally using vocal/verbal communication.
- Can only identify one proficient AAC strategy.
Where
- Athens, Georgia
- Iowa City, Iowa
Collaborators
University of Iowa, University of Florida, Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University, Eunice Kennedy Shriver National Institute of Child Health and Human Development (NICHD)
Related conditions & keywords
Frequently asked questions
What is a clinical trial?
A clinical trial is a research study that tests new medical treatments, drugs, devices, or procedures to determine their safety and effectiveness. Trials are carefully designed and monitored to protect participants while advancing medical knowledge.
Is it safe to participate?
Clinical trials follow strict safety guidelines and ethical standards. Trials must be reviewed and approved, and participants are closely monitored by medical professionals throughout the study. You can withdraw at any time if you choose.
Will I be compensated?
Many clinical trials offer compensation for your time, travel expenses, and inconvenience. The specific compensation varies by study and will be discussed during the screening process. All study-related medical care is typically provided at no cost to participants.
Will I receive a placebo instead of treatment?
When effective treatment exists, participants typically receive either the standard treatment plus the study intervention, or the standard treatment plus placebo. You would not be denied effective care. Placebos are primarily used when no proven treatment is available, or in addition to standard care. Your trial consent form will clearly explain what treatments you may receive.
Can I leave a trial if I change my mind?
Absolutely. Participation in clinical trials is completely voluntary. You have the right to withdraw from the study at any time, for any reason, without penalty or loss of benefits to which you are otherwise entitled.
How long does a clinical trial last?
Trial duration varies widely depending on the study design and purpose. Some trials last just a few weeks, while others may continue for months or years. The study coordinator will provide specific timeline information during your screening call.
Data: ClinicalTrials.gov · synced Dec 12, 2025 · Source of record for eligibility and locations