Aims of the Research

The aim of the study is to identify what features are perceived as the core of what Autism is by people who have
extensive personal experience with the condition.

Take part in the study here.

Invitation

My name is Laura Ibero Miralles (primary researcher) and I would like to invite you to take part in my research about
Autism, which is the Final Year Project of my degree in Psychology at Keele University. I am working under the
supervision of Dr. Katie Wright-Bevans, lecturer and researcher of the School of Psychology.

Before you decide whether or not you wish to take part, it is important for you to understand why this research is
being done and what it will involve. Please take time to read this information carefully and discuss it with friends
and relatives if you wish. Ask us if there is anything that is unclear or if you would like more information.

Why have I been invited?

I am looking for people with close extensive experience with autism (e.g.: parents, siblings, partners, professionals,
people on the Spectrum), who are at least 18-years-old. As the study is conducted in English, a minimum ability to
understand and communicate information in written English is required.

Do I have to take part?

Participation is completely voluntary, which means that you are free to decide whether you wish to take part or not.
If you do decide to take part but later you change your mind, you can withdraw from this study without penalty, and
without giving any reasons. To withdraw (and avoid your answers being used in this study) you just have to close
the questionnaire tab at the top of the page, at any time before clicking ‘submit responses’ at the end of the
questionnaire. After this point withdrawal cannot be guaranteed due to data anonymization.

Take part in the study here.

What are the benefits (if any) of taking part?

By taking part you will have the opportunity to reflect about your thoughts on Autism, even if you decide not to
complete the questionnaire. If you decide to submit your answers, this is an opportunity for your opinions,
experiences and beliefs to be heard (anonymously) by the outer community. The final report may contribute to the
understanding of the condition by giving voice to those with the closest experience with the condition, hopefully
moving a step forward towards a personal, professional and scientific consensus that will allow effective
cooperative investigation and development of successful diagnosis and interventions, leading to a better informed
and less daunting first encounter with the condition for all the parents hearing the term ‘autism’ for the first time,
and a brighter and more integrated future for everyone living with the condition. This is a long journey, and you
will have contributed to make it possible.

In addition, you can request a free copy of the final scientific report by e-mailing the main researcher.

Take part in the study here.

Who is funding and organising the research?

This research is being funded by Keele University as part of my undergraduate degree in Psychology.

What if there is a problem?

If you have a concern about any aspect of this study, you are more than welcome to contact me (Laura Ibero Miralles)
on w2d12@students.keele.ac.uk. Alternatively, if you do not wish to contact the researcher you may contact my
supervisor Dr. Katie Wright-Bevans on k.wright.bevans@keele.ac.uk.

Take part in the study here.