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PARTICIPANTS NEEDED: -Aged 11-16 years -Children with an Autism Spectrum Diagnosis -Mainstream school AIM: To investigate the connection between the friendships of children diagnosed with ASD and their emotional wellbeing within a mainstream school environment. WHY THIS RESEARCH? As persistent impairments in social interaction and communication are central to a diagnosis of Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD), many children with ASD experience difficulties in developing friendships and relationships with their peer group. This may place them at a higher risk of social isolation and loneliness which may ultimately lead to the development of mental health problems. Therefore, the impact of friendships is of significant concern to the success of a child’s education. Your participation will be crucial to help further this research. WHO TAKES PART? Children aged 12-16 years WITH (and WITHOUT) an ASD diagnosis and their parents. This research project has been approved by the University of Bath Ethics Committee. Information provided will be kept anonymous and confidential. At no point will the children’s full names or identity be disclosed. HOW TO TAKE PART? The children and their parents will be asked to complete 3 questionnaires each to measure friendships and emotional wellbeing. The study will then compare child and parent perspectives. These questionnaires are online should take no more than 10 minutes to complete. Child Questionnaire Link https://bathpsychology.eu.qualtrics.com/jfe/form/SV_9o9cdpZaoGiF4xf Parent Questionnaire Link https://bathpsychology.eu.qualtrics.com/jfe/form/SV_cOUgmEYAwAsEL89 Emma van Gelder Email: efvg20@bath.ac.uk DO YOU HAVE AUTISM SPECTRUM DISORDER.docx PARTICIPANTS NEEDED.docx

-What are the experiences of sexuality and relationships that are unique to all individuals with Aspergers and ASD? -How have these experiences worked to shape and develop your sense of self, sexual orientation, and gender identity? Researchers at Deakin University are looking to learn more about the experiences, concerns and positive factors that males, females, and non-binary genders on the spectrum face as they approach young adulthood, and pursue the romantic and sexual life that best meets their wants and needs. It is hoped that with greater understanding, findings can work to inform parents, partners, and supporters of ASD of the many factors that are important to those with ASD, while enhancing sexuality support services and programs tailored to specifically address the issues and concerns that are expressed by this unique group. If you are aged 12 years or above, and would like to share your thoughts, we would be most grateful if you would take 25-35 minutes of your time to complete this anonymous questionnaire: http://psych.hosted-sites.deakin.edu.au/sbs/ We very much appreciate you taking the time to consider the research, and are more than happy to answer any questions you may have about the research.

I don't know if this is the right place to post this, but what are everyone's thoughts on a stickied thread dedicated to friendships and dating? Other forums I have been a member had similar threads and they did get members together. It might be an easier way for members to find aspies in their local area to meet up with and develop real-life friendships with as opposed to everything being online. So, what do people think of this?