Research Purpose:
Currently, the field of sexuality lacks literature regarding the use of mindfulness-based interventions (MBIs) for sexual dysfunction in people experiencing Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) or Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD). Therefore, the purpose of the current study is to build the foundation to bridge that gap by gathering feedback from people experiencing ASD or ADHD on an existing MBI for sexual dysfunction (eSense). This feedback may be used to inform future adaptations of eSense tailored to the needs of people who are neurodivergent.
Research Procedure:
After recruitment, you will need to consent to participate in the study. To do so, we will invite you to a brief Zoom call where we will discuss the consent form with you and allow you to ask any questions you have regarding your participation. After sending back your signed consent form, we will ask you to complete a questionnaire to determine if you match the profile for our study. If you match the profile for our study, we will ask you to fill out another questionnaire discussing your background and sexual experiences. After you complete this, you will be given access to the introduction and first module of the mindfulness arm of the eSense program to review. You will have one week to review the introduction and module as well as complete the between-module exercises at the end of module 1. You will then be sent the link to a final questionnaire requesting your feedback on the program and asking questions about your sexual experience.
Who can participate?
We are looking for people who:
- Are at least 19 years old and able to provide informed consent for yourself;
- Are assigned female at birth
- Are diagnosed with one of either ASD or ADHD;
- Are able to read and write in English comfortably;
- Report symptoms of sexual difficulties;
- Are comfortable and willing to report your experience regarding topics of sex and sexuality in a confidential and private online questionnaire;
- Reside in Canada at time of participation;
- Have reliable internet access and basic competency in using online platforms including email;
- Are available for approximately two weeks to complete the introduction, first module, homework exercises, and questionnaires
When will the study take place?
We are currently recruiting participants for this study as of January 2025. If you are interested in taking part in this study, please contact Piper, our undergraduate student coordinator, at piperslo@student.ubc.ca.
Where does this study take place?
This study can be completed entirely online! The introductory call will be completed on Zoom, and questionnaires will be administered electronically, so you may complete study tasks in your own home or any other private area with minimal distractions.
Contact:
Undergraduate student co-lead: Piper Slonecker (piperslo@student.ubc.ca)
Principal investigator: Dr. Lori Brotto (lori.brotto@ubc.ca)