The proposed pilot study will begin to assess whether driving impairments are included in the functional deficits associated with Autism Spectrum Disorders (ASDs). This will be completed by obtaining data on velocity, collision risk, and visual attention of subjects with ASDs who drive in a simulator. The study includes 2-3 visits for the screening period (approximately 6 hours of assessments) and one driving simulation visit (approximately 2.5 hours). The investigators expect to enroll 20 adolescents and adults (ages 16-50, inclusive) who have been identified as having an ASD from a prior diagnosis or participation in community conferences for individuals with ASDs.
Study Type
OBSERVATIONAL
Enrollment
10
Massachusetts General Hospital
Cambridge, Massachusetts, United States
Simulated driving performance of adolescents and adults with ASDs.
Data will be obtained on velocity, collision risk, and visual attention of subjects with ASDs who drive in the driving simulator at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT).
Time frame: one-time observation (3 hour assessment)
Questionnaire measures of driving history and behavior of adolescents and adults with ASDs.
Subjects with ASD will complete two questionnaires, the Driver Behavior Questionnaire and the Driving History Questionnaire, to provide data on the frequency of violations, errors, accidents, and other aspects of driving history and behavior.
Time frame: one-time assessment (2-6 hour screening visit)
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