Accepting participants without ADHD, ASD and/or Learning Disabilities for all studies.
Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder:
Funding: National Institute of Mental Health (Award #: 5R01MH078160-13)
Description: This research study investigates neural biomarkers (specific electrical signals in the motor area of the brain that control muscle movement and movement planning) associated with attention deficit/hyperactive disorder (ADHD). During the research appointments, participants complete an IQ assessment, questionnaires, computer games that assess cognitive skills, movement activities that assess balance and coordination, and two 2-hour sessions of transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS).
Eligible Age Range: 8 years, 0 months through 12 years, 11 months
Time Commitment: Participation in this study requires two full day appointments (typically 8:30am-2:30pm).
Compensation: Earn up to $50 per day, MRI report and IQ report
*Optional Component (For Participants with ADHD Only)*: Participants with ADHD can elect to complete an additional research appointment (typically 8:30am-2:30pm) that includes two additional sessions of TMS and taking a low dose (10 mg) of methylphenidate (also known as Ritalin). The purpose of this component is to assess the impact of stimulant medication on motor control. Participants complete their IQ testing, computer games, and movement activities during their first appointment. During their second and third appointments, participants complete a 2-hour TMS session in the morning, take either a placebo (sugar pill) or methylphenidate during a 1-hour lunch break, and complete a 2-hour TMS session in the afternoon. Children already taking stimulant medication withhold their medication on their appointment days. Participants with ADHD who elect to complete the medication component receive an additional $50.
For more information, please click here.
Autism Spectrum Disorder:
Funding: Simons Foundation (Award #: 724867)
Description: This research study investigates a new method of identifying early symptoms of autism spectrum disorders, using a computerized assessment of motor imitation (CAMI). The CAMI method uses 2D and 3D motion-capture cameras to identify and quantify differences in imitation ability and speed. During the two half-day (4 hours) appointments, participants complete an IQ assessment, computer games assessing executive functions, movement activities assessing coordination and balance, and an imitation activity using 2D and 3D motion-capture cameras.
Eligible Age Range: 6 years, 0 months through 40 years, 11 months
Time Commitment: Participation in this study requires 2 half-day appointments (4 hours).
Compensation: $50 per day and an IQ report
For more information, please click here.
Funding: National Institute of Child Health and Human Development (Award #: 5P50HD103538-03)
Description: This research study examines brain-based differences in childhood sleep patterns associated with autism spectrum disorders. Participants complete a half-day (4 hours) appointment that includes an IQ assessment, a saliva collection using a saliva sampling kit, a 30-minute practice Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) scan to learn about the MRI scanning environment, and a 1-hour MRI scan. Participants also receive an actiwatch and sleep journal to take home for two weeks. The actiwatch is a device similar to a FitBit that collects data on light exposure and movement to assess sleep disruption.
Time Commitment: Participation in this study requires one half-day appointment (4 hours) and two weeks of wearing a actiwatch (sleep watch)
Compensation: $125 total
For more information, please click here.
Learning Disorders Studies:
Funding: Kennedy Krieger Institute
Description: The aim of this study is to help children with reading disabilities read faster and more accurately and to examine the effects of a reading accelerated program.
Eligible Age Range: 8 years, 0 months through 12 years, 11 months
Time Commitment: One 3-hour eligibility assessment via Zoom, 2-half day appointments, three days a week for 8 weeks to participate in the computer-reading program (20-30 minutes per day)
Compensation: Earn up to $125, MRI report & IQ report
For more information, please click here.
* This survey will determine which study we offer would be the best fit for your child/children. A Psychology Associate will contact you after completing the Study Survey.