Participant Information Sheet
The use of photography to aid eyewitness testimony in autistic individuals
Thank you for taking the time to participate in this study conducted by Newcastle University. The aim of this study is to help improve the experience of autistic adults during their eyewitness testimony. It is important to understand why the research is being done before you decide whether or not to take part. Please carefully read this information beforehand. If you have any questions, feel free to email the researcher prior to taking part. If you do decide to take part, a consent form will be provided for you to sign. However, even after signing the consent form you are free to withdraw at any time, without the need to give a reason.
About the Research
Who will conduct the research?
The research will be conducted by MSc Forensic psychology student Ahmed Alani (a.alani2@newcastle.ac.uk) studying at the School of Psychology in Newcastle University. This research is being supervised by Professor Gwyneth Doherty-Sneddon (gwyneth.doherty-sneddon@newcastle.ac.uk).
Purpose of this the study?
Research has shown that autistic witnesses experience difficulties processing relations among elements of an experience. For example, recalling location, time of day and recalling items in correct order. The purpose of this study is to test whether using photography related to the scene of the crime can help autistic adults in providing eyewitness testimony. This will also be examined within a neurotypical population to see if the results differ, or it is beneficial to both autistic and neurotypical populations.
Why have I been approached?
A large number of participants who are over the age of 18 are needed to conduct my study. Participants must speak English, be able to use a computer and have corrected to normal vision. Both autistic and neurotypical participants are required for the study.
Do I have to take part?
Your participation in this study is completely voluntary. You also have the right to withdraw from the study at any time you wish during participating, without needing to give any reasons or incurring any penalties.
What does the study entail?
The study consists of watching a video of a crime being committed then giving a statement as if you were an eyewitness to the crime. Some participants will also be asked questions about the use of photography and whether they found that useful. The video you will watch will be of a car catalytic converter being stolen.
What are the possible disadvantages and risks of taking part?
Some of the questions or the video you watch may make you feel uncomfortable. Please keep in mind that you can withdraw from the study at any time. If you feel you need to speak to someone about any issues the study might have brought up, please contact your GP or use the web link at the end of this page.
How long will the study take?
In total the study should take no longer than 20 minutes.
How will my information be kept confidential?
All your information will be treated absolutely confidentially and treated according to the Data Protection Act (2018). Your contact details will be removed from your data set straight after your study participation is complete. Your responses from the questionnaire will be stored with a participant code to make sure that nobody can trace these back to you. The questionnaire is done online on the questionnaire host website, Qualtrics. My supervisor and I will have access to the data. Your data may be looked at by staff authorised by the Newcastle University for audit and quality assurance purposes. Completely anonymised data from the project may be shared with other researchers.
How can I withdraw from the study?
You can withdraw at any time by closing down the browser. If you would like to withdraw from the study after completing the survey, you can email either Professor Gwyneth Doherty-Sneddon or Ahmed Alani, both emails provided below.
Ethical Considerations:
This study was approved by the Faculty of Medical Sciences Research Ethics Committee, part of Newcastle University's Research Ethics Committee. This committee contains members who are internal to the Faculty. This study was reviewed by members of the committee, who must provide impartial advice and avoid significant conflicts of interests.