Founded in 2006, AASPIRE conducts action research focused on improving the lives of autistic adults. We use a Community Based Participatory Research (CBPR) approach where autistic and non-autistic scientists and community members work together in all phases of the research process.
Outcomes
What are the most important outcomes for autistic adults, and how can we best measure them?
We are conducting a large research project with the autistic community to create and test the AASPIRE Measurement Toolbox – a set of accessible survey instruments to measure the outcomes that matter most to autistic adults – and follow outcomes over time.
Mental Health
What are mental health challenges experienced by autistic adults, and how can we support improved mental health?
We recently received funding to support a study about suicidality and suicide risks, involving a qualitative exploratory component and a pilot study of a community-based suicide prevention program. We have also completed the qualitative part of a study to better understand autistic burnout, and are now testing an autistic burnout measure.
Employment
What leads to success for autistic professionals, and how can we improve employment outcomes?
We have completed a qualitative study about successful skilled employment. We are currently conducting a study to adapt and test employment outcome measures.
Older Studies
AASPIRE has conducted past studies on Violence and Wellbeing. Although these areas are not currently active, we may pick them up again at some future time.
Partnering with People with Developmental Disabilities to Address Health and Violence
Wellbeing Study
Healthcare
How can we improve healthcare for autistic adults?
We have completed studies identifying healthcare disparities and experiences and have created and tested an online Healthcare Toolkit. We are now exploring how to integrate tools into health systems, and understand emergency room experiences.
Reproductive Health
How can people with developmental disabilities be better supported in making decisions about whether or not to get pregnant?
We are working with autistic people and people with intellectual disability to make a smart phone app. People can use the app to make decisions about pregnancy. We are using research to help make sure we design the app right. Part of that is including people with disabilities in the research to design it.
AASPIRE News
- New mental health results!The AASPIRE Suicide Prevention Project just published their interview study… Read more: New mental health results!
- New grant involving AASPIRE SPP
- Looking for Community Organizations who want to support suicide prevention for the autism communityDoes your organization need training on suicide prevention for the… Read more: Looking for Community Organizations who want to support suicide prevention for the autism community
- New Paper (and talk) on Autism & Skilled EmploymentThe AASPIRE team’s newest paper on autism and skilled employment… Read more: New Paper (and talk) on Autism & Skilled Employment
- New Recorded Talk on Participatory Autism ResearchAASPIRE Co-Director Dr. Christina Nicolaidis gave a remote talk on… Read more: New Recorded Talk on Participatory Autism Research