Autism and Extremist Recruitment Vulnerability
This study is 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.
Eligibility Survey
If you are interested in participating in this study, we would like to ask you several questions to see if you might be eligible.
Conditions to Participate
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.
More Details
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 research 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.
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.
Co-Investigators
IRB#: 900-23-EP
Autism and Extremist Recruitment Vulnerability
Melissa Hunter, PhD
Assistant Professor, MMI Department of Psychology
Licensed Psychologist
Principal Investigator

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