Why

Many Autistic adults want romantic relationships but often find them hard to start or maintain. This can be due to limited opportunities to meet people, social anxiety and communication differences. Negative stereotypes and discrimination also make things harder.

Dating apps like Tinder and OkCupid have become a popular way to meet partners and may be a good fit for Autistic people, offering more control over communication, greater freedom for self-expression and a better chance of connecting with others. But they also come with risks, like online bullying and harassment.

Despite their popularity, there’s very little research on how Autistic people actually experience dating apps.

How do Autistic people use dating apps, what are their experiences, and how can they be better supported and kept safe?

Take part

You are welcome to take part in our research if:

• you are an Autistic adult (18+) (professionally diagnosed or self-identified) AND
• you have used an app or website to try and meet a romantic or intimate partner (including causal hook-ups and long-term relationships).

You will complete an anonymous 15-minute online survey about how you have used apps or websites, relationships you may have formed, and any negative experiences such as bullying and harassment.

At the end of the survey you will be given the option to participate in a follow-up interview to help us learn more about your experiences using dating apps and websites.

Making a difference

By sharing your experiences, you’ll help us develop tools and resources that support Autistic people in safely using dating apps and websites to connect with potential dating partners.

Research team

• Dr Vicki Gibbs: Head of Research, ARCAP
• Dr Ru Ying Cai: Research Fellow, ARCAP
• Dr Chris Edwards: Adjunct Research Fellow, Griffith University and Research Fellow, ARCAP
• Dr Abbey Love: Research Fellow, ARCAP
• Dr Amy Pearson: Assistant Professor, Durham University

Funding

Aspect (Autism Spectrum Australia)