Trial results for a study developing a family-based transition planning program for culturally-diverse youth on the Autism Spectrum were posted on ClinicalTrials.gov on 2026-02-13, showing a mean program acceptability score of 52.00 (SD 5.99) for caregivers.
Background
Transitioning into adulthood presents unique challenges for youth on the autism spectrum and their families, particularly within culturally diverse communities. Effective planning for the future, including education, employment, and independent living, is crucial for improving long-term outcomes. However, access to tailored support programs that address the specific needs of these families can be limited. The development of community-based interventions designed to empower family members in this planning process is vital to ensure comprehensive and culturally sensitive support for transition-aged youth with autism.
Trial design
This completed study, identified as Phase NA, enrolled 27 participants. The trial focused on developing and conducting proof-of-concept testing for the Families FORWARD program, a community-based initiative aimed at supporting family members of transition-aged youth on the Autism Spectrum Disorder. The study also included participants addressing Family Relations. The program involved participants completing surveys before and after participation, along with exit interviews, to assess program acceptability and impact on transition planning activities.
Key results
The trial results provided measurements on program acceptability and transition planning activities:
- For the Families FORWARD Program Acceptability Form, the mean score for Families FORWARD Caregivers was 52.00 (Standard Deviation: 5.99) on a scale.
- For the Families FORWARD Program Acceptability Form, the mean score for Families FORWARD Youth was 47.75 (Standard Deviation: 10.78) on a scale.
- For the Transition Planning Activities Measure, the mean score for Families FORWARD Parents/Caregivers was 46.08 (Standard Deviation: 8.30) on a scale.
What this means
The posted results indicate that the Families FORWARD program demonstrated positive acceptability among both caregivers and youth involved in the study. With mean acceptability scores of 52.00 for caregivers and 47.75 for youth, the program appears to be well-received by its target audience. Additionally, the measurement of transition planning activities provides a baseline understanding of the program's potential influence. These findings suggest that the Families FORWARD program could be a valuable resource for supporting culturally-diverse families in planning for the future of their transition-aged youth on the autism spectrum, warranting further investigation into its broader impact and effectiveness.
Source
The information regarding these trial results was obtained from ClinicalTrials.gov, a public database of clinical studies. The results for the study NCT05965648, titled "Development of a Family-Based Transition Planning Program for Culturally-Diverse Youth on the Autism Spectrum", were posted on 2026-02-13 on clinicaltrials.gov.