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The purpose this research study is to evaluate the effectiveness of the Verbal Behavior (VB) approach as an early intervention model to improve adaptive behaviors and decrease symptom severity in toddlers with autism spectrum disorders. Previous early intervention models have yet to demonstrate statistically significant changes in behaviors indicative of ASD as measured by ASD diagnostic tools (e.g. ADOS-2). We will use skill assessment and curriculum guidelines that follow the VB approach targeted to improve communication, social interactions, and reduce stereotyped interests. Outcome measures will be assessed at intake, 6-month, and 12-month intervals. The goal is to provide evidence to justify rationale for further evaluation beyond an initial conceptual evaluation of a novel early intervention model. The funding is provided by the Department of Pediatrics at the University of Nebraska Medical Center. The Autism Center of Nebraska is collaborating with the staff from the Department of Psychology in this research project. Students from the UNMC College of Nursing and graduate students from the UNMC Applied Behavior Analysis program have been recruited to assist with data collection.
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