Autism & Extremist Recruitment Vulnerability
IRB# 900-23-EP
Media reports often connect autism diagnosis to violent or terroristic behavior, despite little research on this topic. In addition, some research suggests that autistic individuals may be vulnerable to recruitment by extremist or terrorist organizations. We are conducting Focus Group on Vulnerabilities of Individuals with Autism to Extremist Recruitment, a research study performed through focus groups, so that we can gather the perspective of autistic individual and their parents to shed more light on this important and under-researched topic.
Study Details
We are recruiting autistic adults and parents of children with autism to engage in focus group discussions on the potential vulnerabilities of individuals with autism related to extremism and terrorism.
Focus groups will occur via zoom and will be anonymous and confidential.
Your participation in this research study will contribute to a deeper understanding of the challenges individuals with autism spectrum disorder may encounter in relation to extremist recruitment. By joining our focus group, you'll be part of a vital initiative to raise awareness and inform strategies for education and awareness.
Screening Survey
If you are interested in participating in this study, complete our screening survey here.
To be eligible for this study, you must:
- Be an autistic person between the ages or 22-35 or a parent of an autistic person who is between the ages of 10-35.
- Be wiling to participate in open and respectful discussions.
- Commit to attend at least one scheduled focus group session.
- Have an active email address and the ability to access a computer and use Zoom in a quiet, private location.
Contact us to learn more
If you would like to learn more about this study, contact Dr. Hunter.
Principal Investigator
- Melissa Hunter, PhD
Assistant Professor, MMI Psychology Department
Licensed Psychologist
Co-Investigators