Parents’ Insights into How Autistic Children Respond to Different types of Fabrics in clothes
- Apr 30
- 3 min read
Introduction
You have been invited to participate in a research study conducted by Syeda Maryam Hussain, a PhD candidate at Sout-East Technological University. This research is under the supervision of Dr Frances Cleary from the Walton Institute at SETU, Prof. Martina Gooney from the Department of Nursing & Healthcare at SETU, and Dr Sharon Kinsella from the Department of Health and Sport Science at SETU. This research aims to better understand fabric comfort and sensory preferences among autistic children, based on parents’ observations and experiences. This leaflet provides important information about the study, including what participation involves and how your confidentiality will be protected. Before deciding to participate in this study please read this information leaflet carefully. Take time to ask questions – do not feel rushed and don’t feel under pressure to make a quick decision. You should clearly understand the risks and benefits of taking part in this study so that you can make a decision that is right for you. This process is known as ‘informed consent’.
Why is this study being done?
The purpose of this study is to gain insight into your experiences and to identify the most suitable fabrics and clothing for autistic children considering their sensory requirements.
Who is invited to participate?
You are invited if you are a parent/guardian to an autistic child aging between 4 to 13 years.
What are you being asked to do?
This anonymous survey is all about hearing your experiences and your child's preferences. What works, what doesn't, and what truly makes your child feel comfortable. You will be asked to fill out an online survey, which may take around 5-10 minutes to complete. The survey mainly includes questions about preferences in clothing and how you select fabrics and clothing for your autistic child that keeps them comfortable. The survey is completely anonymous and there is no personal information required. The collected information will be used to analyse the needs and preferences of autistic children. You are only required to fill in one survey response for one autistic child. If you have more than one autistic child, you may fill in separate survey forms for each child. This is an anonymous survey, and your responses will be saved securely.
Do you have to participate?
Your participation in this study is completely voluntary and anonymous. There will be no negative consequences if you decide not to participate. By agreeing to participate, you are giving your consent to participate. Additionally, once the response has been submitted you cannot withdraw your response.
What are the risks of participating in this study?
Generally, there are minimal risks to participants in this type of research study and methodology. Risk to the health and well-being of participants is generally very low in this type of study. However, should you experience any discomfort at any stage during you should seek immediate assistance from a relevant professional/service provider. As mentioned above, the survey is completely anonymous, and no one will be able to identify you or your answers, and no one will know whether you participated in the study. Should the data be published, no individual identifying information will be disclosed.
There are no costs to you for participating in the study.
How will the information you provide be used?
The information provided will be used in this study as part of a PhD thesis. This information could also be used in future publications and journals. Again, all data will be anonymous throughout. Should you wish to make a complaint about the handling of your data, you may email dpo@setu.ie.
If you want to know more?
Thank you for considering participation in our research study. Your contribution is greatly appreciated and will help advance our understanding of autism and improve the lives of autistic children. If you have any questions, please email Syeda Maryam Hussain at SyedaMaryam.Hussain@waltoninstitute.ie
Ethical consideration
This study is being carried out in accordance with SETU Research Ethics Policy and Guidelines following review and approval. If you have any concerns about your rights in this study, please contact the Chair of the Research Ethics Committee at ethics@setu.ie.
If you wish to participate in this research study, please complete the following consent form (linked). If you have any further questions, please ask them before completing this form