Isabelle Morris, PhD

Isabelle Morris, a second-year doctoral student at the University’s Institute of Child Development, leverages her unique perspective as an autistic researcher to enhance autism studies. Her current project, RADAR (Research on Autism Driven by Autistic Researchers), examines the perceptions and experiences related to stimming among U.S. adults with autism. Isabelle is deeply committed to integrating community insights into research, believing that participatory approaches lead to richer, more accurate findings and foster community among neurodivergent individuals.

Institution: Institute on Community Integration at University of Minnesota

Project Title: Understanding Autistic Stimming Patterns and Their Functions

Project Overview: This project aims to explore autistic stimming patterns and their potential role in social connection, stress management, and self-knowledge. The study will include surveys completed by autistic participants and their allies, a two-week ecological momentary analysis (EMA) using a smartphone app to track stimming patterns, and the development of a toolkit based on the study's findings. Focus groups with autistic adolescents, adults, and professionals will provide feedback on the app and toolkit to ensure their effectiveness and utility.