Helping autistic young adults navigate dating and sexual relationships
Dating and Sexual Education to Address Social Challenges of Autistic Young Adults
['FUNDING_R21'] · UNIVERSITY OF VERMONT & ST AGRIC COLLEGE · NIH-10894788
This study is all about helping autistic young adults improve their dating and relationship skills in a way that feels true to themselves, by creating a supportive program based on what they want to learn about love and intimacy.
Quick facts
| Phase | ['FUNDING_R21'] |
|---|---|
| Study type | Nih_funding |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | UNIVERSITY OF VERMONT & ST AGRIC COLLEGE (nih funded) |
| Locations | 1 site (BURLINGTON, UNITED STATES) |
| Trial ID | NIH-10894788 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this research studies
This research focuses on addressing the unique social challenges faced by autistic young adults, particularly in the context of dating and sexual relationships. It aims to develop an educational program that empowers these individuals to enhance their social skills without the need to camouflage their autistic traits. By involving autistic self-advocates in the research process, the project seeks to identify the specific topics and skills that autistic young adults wish to learn about in sexual education. The approach emphasizes understanding their needs and experiences to create a supportive and effective educational framework.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are autistic young adults who are navigating dating and sexual relationships and are seeking support in these areas.
Not a fit: Patients who are not autistic or who are outside the young adult age range may not receive benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could provide autistic young adults with the tools and confidence to engage in healthy dating and sexual relationships, reducing their risk of mental health issues and victimization.
How similar studies have performed: While there is limited research specifically targeting dating and sexual education for autistic young adults, similar participatory approaches have shown promise in other areas of autism support.
Where this research is happening
BURLINGTON, UNITED STATES
- UNIVERSITY OF VERMONT & ST AGRIC COLLEGE — BURLINGTON, UNITED STATES (ACTIVE)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: LEWIS, LAURA FORAN — UNIVERSITY OF VERMONT & ST AGRIC COLLEGE
- Study coordinator: LEWIS, LAURA FORAN
About this research
- This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
- Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
- For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.
Conditions: Autistic Disorder