THE SAMUEL AUTISM PROJECT
Evidence. Hope. Advocacy.
RESEARCH & EVIDENCE
Following the evidence.
Asking better questions.
The Samuel Autism Project is committed to advancing thoughtful, evidence-based exploration of autism, medical cannabis, quality of life, and the challenges affecting autistic individuals and their families.
Because families deserve more than promises. They deserve answers.
LIVED EXPERIENCE
Sometimes research begins with a family asking, “Why?”
“My friend watched the before and after at home one day when he was melting. She looked at me and said you need to start recording and show these people what you're doing.”
- Nina, Samuel's mom
Families often notice changes long before those experiences have been fully explored through rigorous research. Personal experience is not scientific proof, but it can raise important questions worth investigating.
OUR APPROACH TO EVIDENCE
Curiosity and credibility can coexist.
The Samuel Autism Project believes families should be able to explore emerging possibilities while also understanding what the science does, and does not, currently show.
ESTABLISHED EVIDENCE
Research supported by stronger, replicated scientific findings.
EMERGING EVIDENCE
Early or developing research that shows promise but requires further study.
LIVED EXPERIENCE
Observations and experiences shared by individuals and families that may help identify important questions for future research.
We believe all three can contribute to meaningful conversations, as long as they are clearly distinguished from one another.
WHAT WE'RE EXPLORING
Research that reflects real life.
01
Medical Cannabis & Autism
Exploring current and emerging research into cannabinoids and autism.
02
Autism Research
Following developments that deepen our understanding of autism and support needs.
03
Profound Autism
Highlighting research addressing individuals with significant support needs and their families.
04
Behavior & Quality of Life
Exploring factors that may affect daily functioning, well-being and quality of life.
05
Sleep
Following research into sleep challenges and their impact on autistic individuals and families.
06
Caregiver & Family Outcomes
Recognizing that autism affects entire families and that caregiver experiences matter.
07
Emerging Research
Following developing areas of science that may shape future understanding and care.
A CENTRAL AREA OF INQUIRY
Medical Cannabis & Autism
Families are already asking questions about cannabis and autism. Science has an obligation to investigate those questions carefully.
Research into cannabis and cannabinoids for autism is still developing.
Early studies have reported potentially meaningful outcomes in areas such as behavior, anxiety, sleep, adaptive functioning and quality of life, but findings remain limited and additional high-quality controlled research is needed to better understand potential benefits, risks, dosing and long-term safety.
“But truly if it wasn't for what I'm doing he wouldn't be home with us. Cannabis saved him from having to go to a facility.”
- Nina, Samuel's mom
Nina's words reflect her family's personal experience. Individual experiences are not evidence of effectiveness and should not be interpreted as medical advice. The Samuel Autism Project supports rigorous research to better understand potential benefits and risks.
WHAT THE RESEARCH IS ASKING
Questions worth investigating.
Good research begins by asking questions we don't yet have the complete answers to.
Can cannabinoids affect behaviors that interfere with daily life?
What are the short- and long-term risks?
Are particular cannabinoid formulations associated with different outcomes?
Which individuals, if any, may be most likely to benefit?
What effects might they have on anxiety, emotional regulation or quality of life?
How do outcomes affect caregivers and the family as a whole?
The goal isn't to prove an assumption
It's to discover what evidence shows.
OUR STANCE
Science first.
Families always.
We do not promote cannabis and we do not dismiss it. We believe families deserve honest information, and we believe science must lead the way.
Our commitment is to rigorous research, transparency and well-being of autistic individuals and their families.
GET INVOLVED
Better research.
Better futures.
The Samuel Autism Project is working to advance high quality research that brings clarity, guidance and hope to families.
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Better evidence can help families make informed decisions, help healthcare professionals provide better guidance, identify unanswered questions for researchers, and give policymakers stronger information when shaping programs and policy.
Evidence should lead somewhere.
Research gives us knowledge. Advocacy helps that knowledge reach the people who need it.