DFUSION INC. — Department of Health and Human Services SBIR Phase II: NIDILRR

Description

This Phase II project builds upon previous research to complete the development and evaluation of SkillTalk, a video-delivered microskills training program to improve relationship skills among transition-age adults between 18 and 28 years with autism spectrum disorder (ASD). Microskills such as showing empathy, active listening, and open-ended questioning can help build relationships. Project activities are conducted in partnership with experts in ASD relationships/sexuality and youth experts who have ASD to achieve the following objectives: (1) formation of ASD expert and young adult advisory panels; (2) finalization of relationship skillsets, content development for 19 relationship skill sets, and over 100 corresponding microskills training videos (30-120 seconds in length); (3) development of content/scripts for approximately ten “Meet in the Middle” videos for neurotypical friends/family; (4) video production; and (5) conducting a nationwide randomized controlled trial to establish effectiveness. Outcomes of this project include the completion and established effectiveness of the SkillTalk training resource, a program that is usable and well-liked by target audiences resulting in better relationship and mental health outcomes for young adults with ASD.