Would you like to help shape a study on autistic experiences of volunteering?

MC_Psych_CSU

Name of study: Volunteering, Identity, and Wellbeing in Autism

Description of research: Through interviews with autistic
volunteers, this qualitative study aims to better understand if and how
volunteering impacts the identities and wellbeing of autistic adults in the
UK and Australia.

What is the purpose of the research? To better
understand whether volunteering impacts autistic people’s identities and
wellbeing in either positive or negative ways. This is not an area that has
been researched a lot previously, and this study seeks to change that. It
is hoped the results help those considering volunteering, as well as their
support networks, to make informed choices.

How will members participate in the research? In Phase 1, we are looking for adults living in the UK and Australia who identify as autistic to help shape the inclusive design of the study. This will involve:

🧐Reviewing 14 draft interview questions
💭Providing feedback via email to inform a more inclusive study

It is estimated this task will take a maximum of 1 hour. Question reviewers do not need to have volunteering experience, and will not be interviewed in the next phase. Your contribution will be acknowledged in the final Honours dissertation and any resulting publication (unless you wish to remain anonymous). If you are interested in participating as a reviewer, please email autisticvolunteers@gmail.com to receive a full information statement.

What is the method of the research? Phase 2 involves qualitative
interviews with 6-12 autistic adults, held over Zoom or Whatsapp. These
will be analysed using Reflexive Thematic Analysis to find common
themes and patterns.

Who will conduct the research? Madeleine Clarke
(Chief Investigator - Bachelor of Social Science in Psychology, Honours
Candidate) and Dr Jenni Greig (Supervisor – School of Psychology) at
Charles Sturt University

What personal data will be collected? Names (only if
attribution in thesis is requested) and email addresses

How will that personal data be stored and how
long for? On secure password protected servers or password
protected and backed up devices belonging to the student and
supervisor and accessible only to Ms Clarke and Dr Greig.

When will the research end?
The practical components of this research project will conclude in
September 2025. Publication will be pursued from 2026, after the study
is finalised.

Please feel free to message me here or email autisticvolunteers@gmail.com if you have any questions at all! Thanks for your time.

Rosie_Scope

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