Understanding and targeting repetitive behaviors and restricted interests in autism spectrum disorder via high-definition transcranial direct current stimulation: a study-protocol.

ABSTRACT:

Background

Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is a neurodevelopmental disorder characterized by persistent deficits in social interaction and repetitive behaviors (RBs). Therapies specifically targeting RBs have been underexplored despite advances in understanding their neurobiological basis. This study aims to evaluate whether high-definition transcranial direct current stimulation (HD-tDCS) can reduce dysfunctional RBs in autistic children and investigate whether improvements differ between lower-order and higher-order RBs based on the brain regions stimulated.

Methods

The study entails a multi-session, sham-controlled, site-controlled, double-blind, and between-subjects design. The study will include participants with an ASD diagnosis (aged 8-13 years; IQ ≥ 70), who will unde

SUBMITTER: Lazzaro G 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC11863796 | biostudies-literature | 2025 Feb

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature