Exploring Culture, Safety and Comfort: Experiences of Autistic Researchers with Autistic Participants in a Longitudinal Interview Study.

Background: Being an “insider” in a research context presents benefits and challenges. However, the unique experiences of Autistic Autism researchers are rarely explored within the research literature. Objective: To describe and reflect on a group of Autistic Autism researchers’ experiences, which include both research practices and relationships developed with participants. To use this analysis to provide recommendations for Autistic Autism researchers, enabling safety and comfort in their working practices. Methods: The AM2M study is a longitudinal, Autistic-led, creative methods facilitated study. The study’s four Autistic postdoctoral researchers were asked questions about, and used their field notes to reflect on, both being Autistic in Autism research and working with Autistic participants. Data were analysed thematically. Themes and recommendations were discussed with the research team until consensus was achieved. Discussion: Autistic researchers often face unique barriers to conducting research. Our team ensured accommodations were made for our Autistic participants and implemented changes to our own working practices to improve safety and comfort. In doing so, we moved away from neuronormative academic practices. Recommendations to encourage Autistic researchers to flourish in academic environments focus on what Autistic researchers can do, alongside managers and funders.