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Adam Guastella child autism MRI

CAN Understand

We seek to understand more about how neurodevelopmental, cognitive and mental health conditions develop and change, and the mechanisms behind why therapies and interventions work.  Our current work in this area includes collaborations with clinics and research instititions across NSW, Victoria and Queensland. 

Currently recruiting

Exploring early life markers to predict social development in Cerebral Palsy and NICU Infants

A high proportion of children with Cerebral Palsy (CP) and/or were admitted to a Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU) show significant social challenges. Around 30% of children with CP are also diagnosed with autism and around half of NICU graduates experience neurodevelopmental delays later in life. However, no previous research has identified ways to systematically identify and track social development challenges in this population.

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This trial is currently recruiting.

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Understanding autism in older adults

We aim to better understand the characteristics of autism as we age, to better differentiate between other possible diagnoses, and to help identify appropriate and relevant strategies and supports.

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Understanding biological pathways of human behaviour

We are trying to better understand the biology of social behaviour in humans. This may then help us develop better treatments for the social difficulties people experience in many different conditions.

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Homesickness and wellbeing of hospitalised children

Homesickness is the distress associated with separation from home and missing things from home. Understanding the different ways homesickness affects children will help us recommend appropriate strategies to better help children when in hospital.

​An overview of treatment provided to children and adolescents with ADHD in Australia

In 2019, Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) affected an estimated 281,200 Australian children and adolescents (4.2%). We are reviewing the treatment provided to children with ADHD to assess the extent it adheres to national guidelines. 

Child Psycholgist

Contact CAN Research

Brain and Mind Centre

University of Sydney

94 Mallet Street

Camperdown, NSW, 2050

Tel: 02 9114 4104

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The Children’s Hospital at Westmead

Cnr Hawkesbury Road & Hainsworth Street

Westmead, NSW, 2145

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We use identity-first language (autistic person)  rather than person-first language (person with autism) throughout the site.
Find out more about our decision to do so. 

 

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