Autism Researcher seeking help with Online Social Networking

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Hey guys!

Long time lurker, first time poster. I'm looking for some help. The name's Ashleigh DiLaurenzio and I'm doing my thesis on Autism Spectrum Disorder and Online Social Networking--largely because of this website. 2 years of prep later and I'm finally ready for participants. I'd love your help. Here's my pitch.


An undergraduate researcher in the Department of Communication Sciences and Disorders at the University of Vermont, Ashleigh DiLaurenzio, is conducting an online study to find out more about the nature of online social networking versus in-person social networking. Specifically, she wants to know if there is any link between feelings about acceptance, loneliness and relationships to social interactions and online social networking usage.

We are seeking 18-30 year olds with High-Functioning Autism or Asperger’s syndrome OR persons of the same age group without a history of psychological, behavioral, or mental illness who fall into one of two sub groups,

1. people who use Online Social Networks for more than 3 hours daily
2. people who use Online Social Networks for 3 hours or less daily.

If you qualify, and choose to participate, you will be contacted about scheduling a one-time only Webcam interview or in-person interview for approximately 20-30 minutes. You will be asked questions about your online usage and also personal questions about your feelings on friends, relationships, loneliness, and social difficulties. If you do not have access to a computer with a webcam the interview will be conducted at a location of your choosing. The interview will be audio-recorded. After the interview you will receive an email link to a short 15-20 online survey about your online habits and you will be asked to rate your feelings about the aforementioned interview topics. Your information will be kept confidential and you can choose to withdraw at any time.

After completing the interview and online survey, you will have the option to be entered into a drawing for a $100 amazon gift card!

If you are interested in participating or know of any other interested parties who fit the criteria, please direct inquiries and questions to Ashleigh DiLaurenzio (860) 806 1297; [email protected] at the University of Vermont.

Thank you for your consideration.

That's pretty cool... except for the age cut off.

i agree that it is an interesting idea, and consequently, since finding the idea quite fascinating, am a bit let down by your having an age cutoff.

I agree, the age cutoff gets me too. I would have considered helping out here. Oh well.