Using Mobile Technology to Reduce Engagement in Stereotypy: A Validation of Decision-Making Algorithms

Area of Science:

• Behavioral Psychology
• Developmental Psychology
• Clinical Psychology

Background:

• Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) is characterized by repetitive behaviors like stereotypy.
• Parental support is crucial for managing ASD symptoms.
• Technology-based interventions offer scalable solutions for ASD support.

Purpose of the Study:

• To preliminarily evaluate the decision-making algorithms of the iSTIM iOS application.
• To assess the feasibility of using trained students to implement iSTIM assessments and interventions.
• To examine the impact of the iSTIM on stereotypy and functional engagement in children with ASD.

Main Methods:

• An iOS application, iSTIM, was developed to target stereotypy in children with ASD.
• Alternating treatment designs were employed to assess intervention effects.
• Trained university students implemented iSTIM assessments and interventions for 11 children with ASD.

Main Results:

• The iSTIM intervention resulted in reduced engagement in stereotypy for 8 out of 11 participants.
• Increased functional engagement was observed in 4 participants who showed reduced stereotypy.
• Preliminary findings suggest potential efficacy but highlight areas for algorithm improvement.

Conclusions:

• The iSTIM app shows promise in decreasing stereotypy among children with ASD.
• Further refinement of the iSTIM's decision-making algorithms is recommended before parent-led trials.
• The study provides a foundation for developing technology-assisted interventions for ASD management.