Pilot Study of the CRUSH Program to Support Sexual Health and Intimacy Skills in Autistic Adults Ages 18 to 30

What this Trial Is About

Researchers are evaluating the CRUSH curriculum, a behavioral program combined with one-on-one coaching, designed to provide sexual education and improve intimate relationship skills specifically for autistic adults. This pilot clinical trial aims to determine if the curriculum is feasible to deliver, acceptable to participants, and shows early signs of being helpful. The study also seeks to explore how the curriculum works and test the assessment tools for future trials. Participants will engage in 20 sessions of the CRUSH curriculum plus individual coaching. The trial includes a waitlist control group, where some participants receive the intervention immediately and others are invited to participate after the study period. Assessments occur before starting, halfway through, and after completing the curriculum to measure knowledge and behaviors related to dating and sexual health. During the study, participants complete a screening call and confirm their autism diagnosis and abilities. They attend three visits for evaluations and provide feedback after each session. Researchers monitor acceptability and feasibility using rating scales and tests at multiple points throughout the 20-week program. The total participation lasts through these assessments and intervention sessions, helping to gather initial data on this programs impact.

Piloting the Competence in Romance and Understanding Sexual Health Curriculum