Persons with autism were surveyed regarding their experiences and opinions of relationships, their day to day lived experiences and their social aspirations. The survey provided an opportunity for respondents to share both negative and positive experiences, as well as possible insights into how their communities could be more inclusive and provide better social opportunities. This thesis utilizes original quantitative and qualitative research and takes a structural/critical perspective of disability. Methodology involves participatory action techniques as questions were formulated from
discussions with volunteers with autism/Asperger syndrome. While there is a considerable amount of research from the perspective of families, service providers and educators about persons with autism spectrum disorders, there is a startling lack of research involving the personal accounts of individuals with autism regarding their own social experiences. This study attempts to address this disparity by giving adults with autism a voice.