You are invited to participate in a research study sponsored by Colorado Mesa University that explores how autistic adults experience sensory differences during sexuality and intimacy.

Purpose of the Study
This study aims to understand the personal perceptions and lived experiences of autistic adults to identify sensory factors that influence comfort, participation, and satisfaction during sexual activity. Specifically, the study seeks to examine how sensory processing differences impact sexual experiences, identify common sensory-related barriers to sexual participation, and gather personal insights from autistic individuals to inform the development of future interventions and educational resources for healthcare providers.

Background
The voices of autistic individuals are often underrepresented in research, particularly when it comes to topics related to sexuality. Autistic adults often express a desire for romantic relationships, yet face significant barriers due to sensory processing and social communication challenges, and limited access to comprehensive sex education (Barnett & Maticka-Tyndale, 2015). Sensory processing differences, such as hypersensitivity or hyposensitivity, can greatly influence comfort and participation in physical intimacy (Gray et al., 2021; Sala et al., 2023). These factors, combined with difficulties in communication and inadequate sex education, highlight the need for targeted supports. Understanding how sensory processing affects intimacy can inform the development of interventions that promote safe, satisfying, and inclusive intimate relationships for autistic individuals. This research contributes to existing knowledge by including sensory regulation perspectives into the study of intimacy and sexuality in autism, an area that remains under-explored.

Why You Were Chosen
You are being asked to participate because you are over age 18, identify as autistic, and are able to sign your own consent form. Your experiences and insights are essential to ensuring this research reflects the voices of autistic adults themselves.

Confidentiality and Voluntary Participation
All responses are anonymous and will be kept confidential. You may skip any questions you do not wish to answer. Your participation is entirely voluntary.

Survey Information
The survey should take approximately 30 minutes to complete. Please submit your responses by February 1, 2026. To begin, click the link below:
https://coloradomesa.az1.qualtrics.com/jfe/form/SV_eVFmSmMTEUHr5xI

Thank you for participating in this important study. Your time and input are valued.

Contact Information
If you have any questions about the study, please contact:

Sarah Gray
Principal Investigator
Assistant Professor of Occupational Therapy
Colorado Mesa University
[email protected]

Name of Organization:
Colorado Mesa University

For questions, please email::
[email protected]

Study Link: 
https://coloradomesa.az1.qualtrics.com/jfe/form/SV_eVFmSmMTEUHr5xI