Social Science: Psychology
Autistic people are at high risk of experiencing mental health difficulties. However, being part of the autistic community could support positive mental wellbeing and improve quality of life. Many autistic people report feeling strongly supported by other autistic people through online networks, autistic-led organisations and attendance at community events. Yet autistic people with co-occurring conditions (such as intellectual or learning disabilities) are often excluded from research, thus we do not know about the possibilities for community participation, or a sense of belonging to the autistic community, for all autistic people. This project thus aims to understand the experience of the autistic community for autistic adults with a range of support needs. The proposed project will investigate (1) whether autistic community involvement relates to improved mental wellbeing and quality of life for all autistic people, (2) what the autistic community means for supported autistic people (e.g., those living within or accessing social care services), and (3) what the barriers and facilitators to accessing the autistic community are. Both quantitative and qualitative methods will be utilised. The research will be participatory, involving an advisory group, to ensure accessibility and high ethical standards. A systematic review will identify research which examines whether autistic community involvement relates to improved wellbeing and quality of life. Flexible qualitative methods will be used to understand what the autistic community means to those with a range of support needs. Further focus groups and quantitative surveys with stakeholders will be conducted to understand the barriers and facilitators to different autistic people accessing the autistic community. Resources will be produced on how to support all autistic people to access the benefits of belonging to a wider autistic community. The project will promote increased inclusion of all autistic people in the autistic community, in autism research and in policy.
Applicants must meet the following eligibility criteria:
Essential criteria
- Experience and/or knowledge of quantitative and qualitative research methods, particularly online survey methods and interviews/focus groups.
- Experience and/or knowledge of conducting research with autistic people or other relevant groups.
- Ability to share concepts accessibly and/or to engage different stakeholders with research.
- Experience and/or knowledge of participatory research and ethical practices within autism research.
Desirable criteria
- An appreciation of how research methods can be adapted to include people with a range of different needs and communication styles.
- Relevant knowledge and understanding of mental health / quality of life for autistic adults.
- An understanding of current issues within research, policy and practice in relation to autism.
- Experience with autistic adults who use social care and/or have co-occurring intellectual or learning disability.
- Experience with community recruitment routes including working with partners in the education sector and third-sector organisations.
Please note that all applicants must also meet the ESRC eligibility criteria. ESRC eligibility information can be found here.
For full details and to apply for this studentship, please visit the Scottish Graduate School of Social Science (SGSSS) website here.
Applications will be ranked by a selection panel and applicants will be notified if they have been shortlisted for interview by 7th April 2021. Interviews will take place on 20th April 2021.
All scholarship awards are subject to candidates successfully securing admission to a PhD programme within the University of Stirling. Successful scholarship applicants will be invited to apply for admission to the relevant PhD programme after they are selected for funding.
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