Mild brain stimulation shows promise for autism social anxiety
NCT ID NCT06495684
First seen Jun 25, 2026 · Last updated Jun 27, 2026 · Updated 1 time
Summary
This study tests whether a gentle brain stimulation technique called tDCS, given while doing social learning tasks on a computer, can reduce anxiety and improve social skills in adults with autism. Twenty high-functioning adults will receive both real and fake (sham) stimulation in random order, with a month break in between. Researchers will measure changes in anxiety, social responsiveness, empathy, and brain activity to see if the real stimulation makes a difference.
What this could mean
Our plain-language read of the trial. This is informational only — not medical advice or a prediction.
- Active substance
- transcranial direct current stimulation (tDCS)
- What this could lead to
- If it works, this could point toward a non-drug way to help adults with autism feel less anxious and connect better in social situations.
- What could go wrong
- This is a very small early study (20 people) testing only short-term effects. The sham comparison means some may not benefit, and results may not apply to everyone with autism.
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Conditions
The condition(s) this trial relates to.
As listed by the trial registrant
The condition terms exactly as the trial's registrant entered them.
Contacts and locations
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Study contacts
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Contact
Phone: •••-•••-•••• Email: •••••@•••••
Locations
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University of New Mexico
RECRUITINGAlbuquerque, New Mexico, 87131, United States
Contact Email: •••••@•••••
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