Center for Autism

collage of pictures, child with virtual goggles, woman cooking, school desks

Improving Quality of Life for Neurodiverse Individuals

People on the autism spectrum may communicate, interact, behave, and learn in ways that are different from neurotypical people. These differences can result in difficulties with social functioning, including interactions with family, employers, educators, and community members. Scientists at Kessler Foundation are developing accessible and evidence-based research that provides new interventions for children, adolescents, and adults on the spectrum, with particular focus on the critical transition from adolescence to adulthood.

child with virtual googles

Applying Groundbreaking Techniques to Interventions

To address the complex issues facing individuals on the autistic spectrum, we have instituted a range of techniques and groundbreaking tools. These tools incorporate virtual reality technology, magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) simulation to reduce anxiety for kids on the spectrum, and neuroimaging to explore the relationship between brain function and traits of autism.

lady playing a piano

Identifying and Evaluating Individual Strength and Expression

Historically, research and treatments have focused on deficits in the lives of individuals on the autism spectrum and attempts to control their problematic behaviors. To reverse that negative pattern, we are using a strength-based rather than a deficit- or pathology-based approach to evaluate how young adults with and without autism identify and express their personal identities. 

Two young men working on electronic equipment

Expanding the Success Rate for Young Jobseekers with Autism

Job interviews are especially challenging for young people on the autism spectrum who have difficulties with social interactions. Developing ways to deal with these challenges is key in helping them enter the workforce to reap the personal, social, and economic benefits. The goal of the novel Kessler Foundation Strength Identification and Expression (KF-STRIDE®) intervention is to improve the likelihood that transition-age youth on the autism spectrum will secure employment.

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teenage boy going in a MRA

Experiencing MRI Simulator Prepares Kids for the Real Thing

At Kessler Foundation, A magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) simulator at our center has advanced research in pediatric autism spectrum disorders. While enclosed in the simulator, young participants experience the sights, sounds and conditions of an actual MRI scan. Engaging in this mock scan experience may reduce anxiety, phobias, and sensitivities to sound, as well as excessive head and body movement, enabling scientists to capture optimal images during actual MRI scans. 

MRA test scan result of a human brain

Researching Brain Connections in Pediatric Autism

Brain scans of children with autism are used to evaluate the relationship between brain function and how symptoms are expressed. Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) is used to study how traits of autism vary in children. The scans look at functional connectivity, or connections between brain regions, rather than focusing on specific areas.

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empty school desks

Examining Impact of COVID-19 Pandemic on Education

As school closures became mandatory because of the COVID-19 pandemic, a study by Kessler Foundation researchers discovered more negative consequences and markedly different stressors for children with autism compared to neurotypical children. The study showed that disruptions to daily routines were more common for children with autism while stress due to social isolation was more common for neurotypical children. 

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To read the latest issue of the Center for Autism Research newsletter, Spectrum Spotlightclick here.

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