GET INVOLVED
If you are a family or individual affected by an Autism Spectrum Disorder you can make a valuable contribution to unravelling the mysteries of autism. One of the ways you can do this is by becoming involved in research into this complex body of disorders. Indeed, many families ask 'what research is underway into autism?'
There is a lot of research into Autism Spectrum Disorders here in Victoria, and elsewhere in Australia and overseas. One key researcher said recently, "it seems every completed research project asks more questions than it answers."
What is Research?
Research takes many forms. It may be a large, international project seeking to establish a cause, or locate a gene, or trial a specific treatment. It may be part of a research program that incorporates smaller student projects such as a twelve-month undergraduate project or a three-year doctoral project. Research projects can cover different areas including medical issues, education, causes and other areas related to child and family needs and functioning.
Research findings are usually presented at conferences and ultimately published in peer reviewed scientific, medical and educational journals. Some research findings feature in the media and initiate considerable discussion and debate. An example would be the recent debate about the MMR vaccination and autism. Others remain unpublished for decades - such as the work of Hans Asperger in the 1940's.
An often-overlooked outcome of honours and post graduate student research is its important role in developing the next generation of professionals. More and more students are becoming interested in Autism Spectrum Disorder, and they carry this interest and expertise into their working life.
Why am I important?
The most important component of Autism Spectrum Disorder research is you - the families and individuals. Without your participation there can be no research findings, and thus no change in our scientific knowledge of these conditions.
Please consider being part of the Autism Victoria Research Participant Register. You only need provide basic information about yourself and/or your family. The register is kept securely by Autism Victoria and is not issued to any other organization. A researcher will be able to request a listing of subjects defined by the following criteria:
- Date of birth
- Postcode
- Specific Diagnosis
- Verbal/non-verbal
- Level of intellectual disability
- Gender
- Number of siblings with an Autism Spectrum Disorder
- Number of siblings not affected by an Autism Spectrum Disorder
This is an email-based list. Sometimes we may need to contact you to verify details, which is why we need your personal details. However, only your email address will be made available to bone fide researchers. When a researcher contacts you, s/he will explain the study briefly. You are under no obligation to participate in the study unless you wish to do so. You may remove your details from the list whenever you wish by sending an email to j.barbaro@latrobe.edu.au.
Form
A parent or primary carer, or the person with an Autism Spectrum Disorder (if possible) can complete this form. Please complete a separate form for each child/adult with an Autism Spectrum Disorder you wish to include on the register.