Michelle Dodd has researched topics that are at the core of the evolution of autistic online spaces. Her PhD examines how autistic people feel social connection in online interactions, focusing on video calls as an increasingly important social space, and testing which factors help conversations feel connected, or effortful.

Michelle's first study analysed recordings of online conversations from the general population, with findings that fit with the double empathy problem.

Her second study builds on this using newly recorded conversations between autistic and non-autistic participants, exploring how different interaction styles and camouflaging shape the experience of connection.

Together, this work aims to better understand autistic connection within evolving online autistic spaces.

Michelle will talk about her work on Saturday, 7th Feb, 12-12:30 GMT, with the title Social Connections in Online Interactions.

Registration now open! https://www.autscape.org/2026/online/registration

Full programme: https://www.autscape.org/2026/online

#autisticspace #autism #neurodiversity #communication #DoubleEmpathyProblem #onlineautscape2026 #onlinespace

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370 pro-Russian disinformation sites discovered in Bulgaria

Sofia, indicated that the fast growth of the so-called “mushroom sites” is one of the causes of the rapid spread of Russian propaganda in the country

Mushroom sites are online media websites created in bulk by malicious actors to spread propaganda & disinformation

https://kyivindependent.com/400-pro-russian-disinformation-sites-dicoverd-in-bulgaria/

#RussiaInvadedUkraine #InformationWarfare #RussianPropaganda #Bulgaria #OnlineSpace #SocialMedia #RussianAggression #Ukraine #StandWithUkraine