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

NCT ID NCT06712784

Recruiting now Symptom relief Sponsor: Boston Medical Center Source: ClinicalTrials.gov ↗

First seen Jun 27, 2026 · Last updated Jul 10, 2026 · Updated 2 times

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.

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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.

AUTISM SPECTRUM DISORDER

Contacts and locations

Locations

Boston Medical Center
RECRUITING

Boston, Massachusetts, 02118, United States

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