Sensory Processing and Mental Health

Informed Consent

Consent for Participation in Research Activities

Project Title: Sensory Processing and Mental Health

Research Description

You are invited to participate in a research study conducted by Kris Clark and Dr. Ruth Tincoff. The overall purpose of this research is to understand how sensory processing impacts mental health. During this study you will be asked to fill out a survey asking about your sensory processing experiences and how they impact your mental health.

Some of the questions are about emotional topics. If you experience emotional distress during or after this study, please use your current coping and support resources or contact one of these qualified supports: College of Idaho Students - Timely Care or counseling@collegeofidaho.edu, Psychology Today Find a Therapist https://www.psychologytoday.com/us/therapists, U.S. Government Substance Abuse and Mental Health Administration Coping https://www.samhsa.gov/find-support/how-to-cope or call 1-800-662-4357.  

Voluntary Participation

Your participation is entirely voluntary and you may choose not to participate in this study or withdraw your consent at any time. You will not be penalized in any way should you choose not to participate or withdraw.

The amount of time required for your participation will be 30-45 minutes.

Compensation

If you registered through Sona, then you will receive 0.5 SONA credits.

If you access the study through another link, then you will receive nothing.

If you have a neurodivergent condition, then you will be eligible for additional questions and will receive a small $5 gift such as a water bottle sticker sent to you in the mail.

Risks and Benefits

The risks are similar to filling out a secure online form on a device of your choice. Some of the questions might cause some emotional discomfort similar to everyday conversations about thoughts and feelings. We provide support information in this consent form.

There are no direct benefits associated with your participation in this research other than the enhancement of scientific knowledge.

Alternative Therapies

Sometimes there are alternatives to participating in research. Certain studies, such as those that involve a therapy or intervention, are examples of when alternatives might be available. Because this study does not involve an intervention or treatment of any kind, no alternatives are offered.

Privacy and Confidentiality

We will do everything we can to protect your privacy. As part of this effort, your identity will not be revealed in any publication that may result from this study.

In rare instances, a researcher's study must undergo an audit or program evaluation. This may result in the disclosure of your data as well as any other information collected by the researcher. If this were to occur, such information would only be used to determine whether the researcher conducted this study properly and adequately protected your rights as a human participant. Importantly, any and all audits would maintain the confidentiality of any information reviewed by their office(s).

Contact Information

If you have any questions or concerns regarding this study or feel that you have been harmed in any way by your participation in this research, please contact Kris Clark at kristenidaho@icloud.com and/or Dr. Ruth Tincoff at (208) 459-5258.

If you wish to talk with someone else or if you have questions about your rights as a research participant, please call Dr. David Douglass, Human Protection Administrator, at (208) 459-5259.

IRB Number: 2425-CofI041.1, Approved March 12, 2025, Expires May 23, 2025
*This question is required.

I am 18 years of age or older. I have read this consent form and have been given a chance to ask questions. I agree to participate in the research study described above titled, The Impact of Sensory Processing Difficulties on Mental Health in Neurodiverse Individuals. I will receive a copy of this form for my records.