This interactive webinar will bring together researchers and Autistic adults to explore online dating experiences in the Autistic community, and how platforms can better support inclusion, safety and meaningful connection.
Dr Vicki Gibbs will present findings from a recent study that investigated the experiences of Autistic people in online dating environments.
A panel of three Autistic adults will discuss their own online dating experiences, reflecting on navigating profiles, making decisions around disclosure, social expectations, risks and safety.
The webinar will include a live Q&A session with Dr Gibbs and the panellists.
Date
Tuesday 24 March, 12.30–1.30pm (AEDT)
Program
Navigating online dating: Autistic adults' experiences of connection, disclosure and safety – Dr Vicki Gibbs
This presentation will provide an overview of Aspect’s latest research on online dating experiences of Autistic adults. Vicki will outline key findings, including:
- the types of connections formed
- disclosure decisions and responses
- victimisation experiences
- recommendations for improving online dating experiences.
Lived experience panel – Emma Beardsley, Chris (Tiger) Love and Lana Wheatfill
In this facilitated panel discussion, Autistic adults will share their personal experiences of online dating. Panellists will reflect on:
- navigating profiles, messaging and first meetings
- decisions around disclosing autism
- sensory and communication considerations
- positive experiences and meaningful connections
- barriers, risks and lessons learned
- advice for other Autistic people and for dating platforms
The webinar will include a live Q&A session with Dr Gibbs and the panellists.
Who
This webinar is recommended for:
- Autistic adults
- researchers
- families of Autistic people
- mental health professionals
- relationship counsellors
- dating platform designers and technology professionals
- organisations and businesses interested in digital inclusion.
Presenters
Dr Vicki Gibbs – Head of Research, ARCAP
Vicki is a Clinical Psychologist, Head of Research at Aspect, and an Adjunct Associate Lecturer at the University of Sydney. As a parent of an Autistic young man, she is passionate about impactful research. Her work spans autism assessment, criminal justice, employment, education, financial well-being and self-compassion, with a PhD on violent victimisation of Autistic adults.
Emma Beardsley – Senior Autistic Consultant, Aspect Autism Friendly
Emma is a proud Autistic consultant, advocate and researcher with Aspect’s Autism Friendly team. She brings lived experience and professional expertise to projects across all stages. A founding member of the the Aspect Think Tank, she advises on day-to-day autism practice. Emma is a keen advocate for the rights and needs of Autistic people through sharing her personal journey on the autism spectrum and her expertise in providing support for children of all abilities. Emma holds a Bachelor of Early Childhood Education and Care.
Chris (Tiger) Love – Autistic individual
Hello, My name is Chris (Tiger) Love. A little about myself. I am a loyal person. I ride horses for therapy. I have been serving as a Volunteer Firefighter. I also have been training in mixed martial arts (MMA) for 21 years and 9 months. I really love to inline skate and ice skate. I mix music. And I sing a little bit. I also am really good at airsoft and Lazer tag competitions. I have taken up Storm Chasing and have being enjoying chasing after storms.
Lana Wheatfill – Autistic advocate and doctoral candidate
Lana is a proud Autistic advocate, dedicated public speaker, and PhD Candidate (Psychology) at Victoria University. Lana has a decade of professional experience working with and for the Autistic community through various charities and autism organisations, as a mentor, teacher, and advocate. Drawing from her lived experience, Lana is committed to "nothing about us without us" and the need for Autistic voices in autism research.