Research Studies

Study of Visual and Cognitive Functions in Autism

Normal and Abnormal Development of Visual Functioning in Adolescents The goal of this study is to understand and characterize the development of visual and cognitive processes in normal and abnormal development. We will test adolescents who have autism spectrum disorders, or who have no psychiatric illness.

Participants are invited to our research lab, which is located in the Centre Building of McLean Hospital. Participation will include four visual tests done on a computer, each lasting between 15 and 30 minutes. The task, which many kids may find interesting, will include 1) a basic test of detecting a simple object 2) a test of visual memory 3) a test of grouping moving objects 4) a test of detecting a face In addition, they will have a clinical interview and an IQ test. Overall, the study should take up to 4-5 hours (divided over two sessions).

Participants will be compensated $20 per hour. The results of this study will increase our understanding of brain development in the disorder.

Contact: McLean Hospital's Visual Psychophysiology Lab, 617-855-3609