Autism Research Study
Researchers at the University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA) are conducting a study on brain and cognitive development in children with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) to better understand how bilingual language environments may impact development.
Fast Facts
Diagnosis of Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD)
8-12 Years Old
Compensation Provided
Conducted in
Los Angeles, CA
Study Background
This study explores how bilingualism may influence cognitive and brain development in children with autism.
Approximately one in four children with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) in the United States is raised in a bilingual household. While bilingualism has been linked to cognitive benefits in typically developing children, less is known about how growing up with two languages affects children with ASD. This research aims to close that gap.
The UCLA Brain and Cognitive Development in Autism Study investigates whether bilingual language experiences may provide cognitive or neural advantages in children with ASD. The results may help guide clinicians and families in making informed decisions about language use in the home, especially when raising a child on the spectrum.
Study Background
This study explores how bilingualism may influence cognitive and brain development in children with autism.
Approximately one in four children with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) in the United States is raised in a bilingual household. While bilingualism has been linked to cognitive benefits in typically developing children, less is known about how growing up with two languages affects children with ASD. This research aims to close that gap.
The UCLA Brain and Cognitive Development in Autism Study investigates whether bilingual language experiences may provide cognitive or neural advantages in children with ASD. The results may help guide clinicians and families in making informed decisions about language use in the home, especially when raising a child on the spectrum.
Additional Information
This study seeks to understand how language environments—specifically bilingual vs. monolingual—affect cognitive skills and brain development in children with autism. The findings will help shape future clinical recommendations about language use at home for families of children with ASD.
Your child may qualify for this study if they meet the following criteria.
Inclusion Criteria:
- Ages 8-12
- Diagnosis of autism spectrum disorder (ASD)
- Child speaks English only OR both English and Spanish
- Able to attend 6 in-person study visits at UCLA
- Able to undergo an MRI (no non-removable metal on or in your body, extreme claustrophobia)
Participation involves two in-person visits to UCLA across 3 separate time points (each time point consists of two visits). During the first visit, your child will complete cognitive assessments, and you will be asked to fill out questionnaires. The second visit includes a non-invasive MRI brain scan, with time built in for breaks and preparation. Families who opt to continue can return for two additional study points over the next 5 years.
Yes! Families will receive $100 per study time point—$25 for Visit 1 and $75 for Visit 2—plus a summary of the child’s cognitive assessments, a picture of their brain scan, free parking, complimentary snacks, and access to a toy prize box after the scan. Families who complete all study visits over the 5-year period can earn up to $300.
There is no cost for you to participate in our research study.