This paper outlines research conducted between three adults with Asperger’s syndrome and a neuro typical researcher (neuro typical is someone who does not have Asperger’s syndrome). The paper examines the nature of emancipatory research in terms of empowerment, reciprocity and gain. Research that is not conducted solely by ‘service users’ is usually referred to as participatory rather than emancipatory. This paper argues that the principles of emancipatory research can apply to research that involves a non-disabled researcher working alongside service users. The importance of the social model of disability is highlighted as being the basis for the approach taken in this research. The viewpoint of the neuro typical researcher is considered as well as that of the adults with Asperger’s syndrome.
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