The goal of the study is to identify brain networks that support healthy social development in newborns. Identification of such networks and examining how they function in babies who later develop social difficulties related to autism is the major aim of this study. This information may help researchers discover mechanisms contributing to the development of autism and inform new treatments to support social development in early childhood.

You may be eligible for this study if you meet the following criteria.

Inclusion Criteria:

• Pregnant or very recently gave birth
• Infant has a family member with autism (parent, sibling, aunt, uncle, or cousin)
• Willing to attend repeated in-person visits in New Haven, CT
• No exposure to illicit drugs during pregnancy
• Primary language spoken at home is English
• No psychotic disorder in the mother

This is a longitudinal study involving in-person visits in the first month of life (at 2-4 weeks), and at 4, 6, 12, and 18 months. The first visit will include a non-invasive MRI brain scan while the baby naps.

The earlier visits last 1-2 hours, the later visits may last up to 4 hours, and all visits are scheduled at the families’ convenience. Interested parents can receive feedback about their child’s development at 12 and 18 months. The visits take place on the campus of the Yale School of Medicine in a family- and baby-friendly laboratory.

As a participant, you may receive up to $350 for completing the entire study. Additionally, we provide free parking, snacks, and small tokens of our appreciation. You have an opportunity to learn about your child’s development and should any concerns arise, you can have them addressed by an expert clinician on staff. If a clinician identifies developmental delays, a written report of the evaluation will be provided to you, which can be used to guide access to services or additional diagnostics.

There is no cost for your baby to participate in our research study.