Research Details
Comprehensive overview of my research on workplace mental health for vulnerable neurodivergent emerging adults, including innovative methodologies and accessible participant information design.
Research Overview
Innovative approaches to understanding and supporting neurodivergent emerging adults in workplace environments
Primary Research Focus
Workplace Mental Health for Vulnerable Neurodivergent Emerging Adults
My PhD research addresses a critical gap in the literature surrounding mental health support for young, vulnerable adults in workplace environments. Specifically, I focus on neurodivergent emerging adults (ages 18-30) who face unique challenges in professional settings.
Key Research Questions
- How do neurodivergent emerging adults experience mental health challenges in workplace environments?
- What support mechanisms are most effective for this vulnerable population?
- How can creative methodologies enhance our understanding of lived experiences?
- What tools and resources can be developed to improve workplace mental health support?
Research Goals & Objectives
Fill Literature Gap
Address the shortage of research on mental health support for young, vulnerable adults in workplace settings.
Develop Toolkit
Create comprehensive resources for workplace mental health support specifically designed for neurodivergent emerging adults.
Innovative Methods
Pioneer creative methodologies that make research more accessible and engaging for vulnerable populations.
Practical Application
Ensure research findings translate into practical, implementable workplace support strategies.
Creative Research Methodology
Innovative qualitative approaches using edible materials and creative methodologies
Innovative Approach
My research employs creative qualitative methodologies that go beyond traditional interview and survey methods. Central to this approach is the use of edible materials within qualitative research frameworks—a pioneering methodology that creates more engaging and accessible research experiences for participants.
Edible Art Methodology
Participants create edible sculptures and paintings on edible materials as a means of expressing their workplace experiences and mental health challenges. This approach:
- Reduces traditional power dynamics in research settings
- Provides alternative communication methods for participants
- Creates tangible outputs that can be consumed and shared
- Offers therapeutic benefits through creative expression
Participant-Centered Design
Research protocols are designed with accessibility and participant comfort as primary considerations, influenced by local employability training programs in central Birmingham:
- Flexible session structures adapted to individual needs
- Multiple communication options (verbal, visual, written)
- Sensory-friendly environments
- Collaborative meaning-making processes
Trauma-Informed Approach
Recognizing the vulnerability of the target population, all methodologies incorporate trauma-informed principles:
- Safety and trustworthiness in all interactions
- Participant choice and control over their involvement
- Cultural humility and responsiveness
- Collaboration and mutuality in research relationships
Why Creative Methodologies?
Enhanced Accessibility
Creative methods accommodate diverse communication styles and cognitive differences common in neurodivergent populations.
Reduced Barriers
Non-traditional approaches help overcome anxiety and hesitation often associated with formal research participation.
Richer Data
Participants can express complex experiences that may be difficult to articulate through words alone.
Empowerment
Participants become co-creators of knowledge rather than passive subjects of study.
Accessible Participant Information
Award-winning approach to creating inclusive research materials for vulnerable populations
Core Accessibility Principles
Creating accessible participant information sheets is a fundamental responsibility when working with vulnerable groups. My approach incorporates evidence-based design principles to ensure information is truly accessible to all potential participants.
Visual Accessibility
Design Considerations:
- Font Selection: Clear, sans-serif fonts (minimum 12pt)
- Color Contrast: High contrast ratios (minimum 4.5:1)
- Line Spacing: Increased spacing for improved readability
- White Space: Adequate margins and spacing to reduce cognitive load
- Consistent Layout: Predictable structure and navigation
Language Accessibility
Communication Strategies:
- Plain Language: Avoiding jargon and technical terms
- Short Sentences: Clear, concise expression of ideas
- Active Voice: Direct, straightforward communication
- Bullet Points: Breaking down complex information
- Definitions: Explaining necessary technical terms
Visual Communication
Supportive Visual Elements:
- Infographics: Visual representation of key concepts
- Icons: Universal symbols to support understanding
- Flowcharts: Clear process visualization
- Alt Text: Descriptive text for all images
- Consistent Imagery: Cohesive visual language throughout
Implementation Examples
Traditional Approach
Accessible Approach
• Fill out a short form about yourself
• Talk with the researcher for 1-1.5 hours
• Your conversation will be recorded
• You can take breaks anytime
Complex Consent
Clear Consent
✓ What the study is about
✓ What I will be asked to do
✓ I can leave at any time
✓ My information will be kept private
Resources for Accessible Research Design
For researchers interested in creating more accessible materials, these resources provide comprehensive guidance on inclusive design principles:
UK Government Guidelines
Comprehensive guidance on publishing accessible documents with practical implementation tips.
Access GuidelinesONS Text Formatting
Office for National Statistics guidelines on accessible text formatting and design principles.
View GuidelinesKey References & Further Reading
Academic sources informing accessible and inclusive research practices
The following academic sources have been instrumental in developing my approach to accessible research design and inclusive methodologies for vulnerable populations.
Diversity, Equity, and Inclusivity in Research Design
Asmal, L., Lamp, G., & Tan, E. J. (2022). Considerations for improving diversity, equity, and inclusivity within research designs and teams. Psychiatry Research, 307, 114295.
Critical Approaches to Science Communication
Canfield, K. N., Menezes, S., Matsuda, S. B., Moore, A., Austin, A. N. M., Dewsbury, B. M., Feliú-Mójer, M. I., McDuffie, K. W. B., Moore, K., Reich, C. A., Smith, H. M., & Taylor, C. (2020). Science communication demands a critical approach that centers inclusion, equity, and intersectionality. Frontiers in Communication, 5.
Patient Involvement in Information Sheet Design
Hudson, G., Jansli, S. M., Morris, D., Wykes, T., & Jilka, S. (2023). The impact of patient involvement on participant opinions of information sheets. BJPsych Open, 9(1), e10.
Responsible Conduct of Research
Shamoo, A. E., & Resnik, D. (2015). Responsible conduct of research (3rd ed.). Oxford University Press.
Barriers to Recruitment of Disabled People
Shariq, S., Pinto, A. M. C., Budhathoki, S. S., Miller, M., & Cro, S. (2023). Barriers and facilitators to the recruitment of disabled people to clinical trials: a scoping review. Trials, 24(1).
Collaborate with This Research
Interested in learning more or exploring collaboration opportunities?
Collaboration Opportunities
Research Partnerships
Organizations working with neurodivergent emerging adults seeking research collaboration
Speaking Engagements
Conferences, workshops, and events focused on accessible research or workplace mental health
Academic Collaboration
Fellow researchers interested in creative methodologies or accessibility in research
Community Partnerships
Community organizations supporting neurodivergent adults in employment settings
Ready to Connect?
I'm always excited to discuss my research, share insights about accessible methodology, or explore potential collaborations. Whether you're a fellow researcher, community organization, or simply interested in this work, I'd love to hear from you.