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Understanding Autism

Join a growing community of families, autistic adults, and researchers working to understand autism and improve lives.

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WHY JOIN SPARK

  • You’ll be part of the largest autism research community
  • It’s simple and free
  • SPARK is a long-term study that will provide answers to research questions for years to come
  • Together we can advance the understanding of autism
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Who Can Join

  • SPARK is for all individuals living in the U.S. with a professional diagnosis of autism and their family members
  • All ages are welcome

How to Join

  • Create an account online
  • Agree to share data and genetic information
  • Registration takes about 20 minutes

What Participation Means

  • Participation is online and free
  • Your information will be kept private and secure
  • Answer questions about your autism experience
  • Return your saliva kit if you agree to genetic research
  • Learn about additional research opportunities
New to SPARK? Learn more.
Already a participant? Visit your personal SPARK Dashboard.

MEET OUR PARTICIPANTS

An Autism Diagnosis in Middle Age Answers Decades of Questions
An Autism Diagnosis in Middle Age Answers Decades of Questions

LaVell Juricich spent almost six decades trying to fit in and wondering why she didn't. When she was 58, she got the answer: she has autism. Now she hopes that research will help others on the spectrum to be who they are.

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Uncovering Sleep Problems in Autism
Uncovering Sleep Problems in Autism

Many children and adults on the spectrum struggle to get a good night's sleep. Some SPARK participants are wearing devices that measure their sleep and awake patterns for a new study examining the links between autism, sleep, and genetics.

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How Autistic Adults Are Changing What We Know About Them
How Autistic Adults Are Changing What We Know About Them

We know very little about autistic people as they age. Adults in the SPARK study are changing that. Find out how.

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WEBINARS

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Jamie Upshaw

Jamie Upshaw

Webinar: The Effects of Autism on the School-to-Prison Pipeline

February 20, 2024

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Jaime DeQuinzio, Ph.D., BCBA-D

Jaime DeQuinzio, Ph.D., BCBA-D

Webinar: A Guide to Nurturing Social and Communication Skills in Young Children with Autism for Parents

January 25, 2024

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CONTACT US