Understanding Autism

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

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

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

Understanding Research: An Autism Researcher Answers Your Questions
Understanding Research: An Autism Researcher Answers Your Questions

You're bombarded with information about autism interventions. How can you tell if there's scientific evidence for them? A SPARK researcher explains what research is — and isn't.

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Coming of Age: What Awaits Young Adults With Autism?
Coming of Age: What Awaits Young Adults With Autism?

The road to adulthood begins for many teens when they graduate from high school and move on to a first job or college. But for people with autism, leaving high school is a more monumental step, one that will transform their relationship to services. How can they prepare?

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What Can Autistic People Learn From Genetic Testing?
What Can Autistic People Learn From Genetic Testing?

Which autistic people are most likely to learn something from a DNA test? And what does DNA tell us about why autism differs in each person? The SPARK study has answers.

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WEBINARS

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Upcoming
David Amaral

David Amaral

Webinar: Autism BrainNet-Advancing Research through the Gift of Brain Donation

November 14, 2024

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Dr. Rosmary Ros-DeMarize

Dr. Rosmary Ros-DeMarize

Estrategias para el Manejo de Comportamientos Difíciles

October 10, 2024

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CONTACT US