Bridging the Research/Application Gap: Incorporating Autistic Intellect in Research Design and Evaluation

Session Co-Chairs: Dena L. Gassner and Stephen Shore Trainee Co-Leader: Recent IMFAR gatherings have emphasized the need to close the gap between the bench and the community in regard to autism outcomes. This SIG seeks to create dialogue about what autistic individuals can bring to the research bench as contributors to design, analysis and review of potential research. One case example; a study on autistic women wherein such collaboration enhanced the quality and outcomes will be shared. This paradigm shift from "for people with autism" to "with autistic collaboration" is key in order to target, prioritize and expedite proactive outcomes. We will also discuss making these situations meaningful for the person with autism, rather than tokenistic or demeaning in nature. Finally, we will discuss changes needed to insure an accessible and inclusive workplace for autistic researchers.