New behavioral approach aims to ease needle fear in kids with autism

NCT ID NCT06712784

First seen Jun 27, 2026 · Last updated Jun 27, 2026

Summary

This study tests whether simple behavioral strategies—like social stories, videos, and positive reinforcement—can help autistic children (ages 3 and up) stay calm and cooperative during needle procedures at Boston Medical Center. Researchers will work with 10 children who have a history of challenging behaviors around needles. The goal is to reduce distress and improve the hospital experience for patients and families.

What this could mean

Our plain-language read of the trial. This is informational only — not medical advice or a prediction.

Active substance

behavioral intervention (social stories, videos, and positive reinforcement)

What this could lead to

If it works, this could offer a simple, drug-free way to make hospital needle visits less stressful for autistic children and their families.

What could go wrong

This is a very small, early-stage study with only 10 participants, so results may not apply to everyone. The strategies may not work for all children or in all hospital settings.

Disclaimer Read more

This is a summary of the original study . Summaries may miss details or leave out important information. Before applying or accepting participation, make sure you have read and understood the full study. Curemydisease.com takes no responsibility whatsoever for anything missed, misunderstood, or acted upon as a result of our summary — we know it does not capture everything.

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Conditions

The condition(s) this trial relates to.

autism spectrum disorder

As listed by the trial registrant

The condition terms exactly as the trial's registrant entered them.

Contacts and locations

Study contacts

  • Contact

    Phone: •••-•••-•••• Email: •••••@•••••

Locations

  • Boston Medical Center

    RECRUITING

    Boston, Massachusetts, 02118, United States

    Contact Phone: •••-•••-•••• Email: •••••@•••••