Arianna Garagozzo, PhD

Project: Developing a Healthy Romantic Relationships Intervention for Autistic Young Adults with Intellectual Disability
Institution: Children's Hospital of Philadelphia

Project Overview
Summary:
Dr. Arianna Garagozzo's project aims to create a community-partnered intervention focusing on healthy romantic relationships for autistic young adults with intellectual disability (ID). By collaborating with autistic individuals, caregivers, and community consultants, Dr. Garagozzo will co-develop an intervention manual tailored to this population's unique needs, ensuring it is both practical and effective.

Methods:
The project involves a two-phase process:

1. Community Engagement: Interviews with autistic young adults with ID and their caregivers to gather input on essential topics for the intervention.
2. Manual Development and Feedback: The development of the intervention manual, followed by additional interviews with community consultants to refine the content and materials.

Deliverables and Timeline:
Key deliverables include the finalized intervention manual, conference presentations, and peer-reviewed manuscripts. The project is designed to be completed within the grant period, with regular mentor consultations and active community involvement ensuring timely progress.

Project Mentors and Contributors

Mentors: Dr. Emily Kuschner, Dr. Benjamin Yerys, Dr. Laura Graham-Holmes