http://hdl.handle.net/11667/40 This collection contains research data produced by University of Stirling researchers. 2026-11-02T23:42:42Z http://hdl.handle.net/11667/282 Title: Understanding autistic friendships: Social connection through the lens of the double empathy problem Dataset Description (Abstract): Background: Autistic adults desire social connection yet report difficulty forming and maintaining friendships. The Double Empathy Problem (DEP) suggests that misunderstandings arise between autistic and non-autistic individuals due to differences in communication styles. This mixed methods study examined whether friendship expectations differ between autistic and non-autistic individuals, and whether friendships with others of the same neurotype (e.g., autistic-autistic) are more likely to meet expectations, which in turn results in greater relationship satisfaction. Methods: In a pre-registered study, 161 adults (95 autistic, 66 non-autistic) completed an online survey measuring ideal friendship expectations across six factors. Participants also considered up to two friendships (including both autistic or non-autistic friends), how well that friendship met expectations, and the perceived satisfaction of that friendship. In total, 234 friendships were included in the quantitative analysis. Autistic adults were also asked open-ended questions about their friendship experiences, which was analysed using thematic analysis. Results: Autistic participants reported valuing similarity more than non-autistic participants. There were no significant differences across the other expectation factors. While greater discord was reported between autistic-non-autistic friendships, contrary to predictions, same-neurotype friendships were not more likely to meet expectations, and this was not associated with friendship satisfaction. From the qualitative analysis, autistic participants described differences in communication, energy demands, and expectations when interacting with non-autistic friends. Friendships with other autistic individuals were often described as more natural, validating, and comfortable, though not without conflict. Conclusion: These findings suggest that while autistic-autistic friendships may offer interpersonal ease, this does not necessarily translate into measurable differences in closeness or expectation alignment in established friendships. We conclude that DEP-related misunderstandings may have a greater impact during initial stages of friendship formation but can be overcome in established friendships with greater acceptance and normalisation of autistic traits by non-autistic friends. http://hdl.handle.net/11667/281 Title: CEPD corpus Dataset Description (Abstract): The CEPD corpus is the dataset compiled for the PhD thesis, Metaphor Translation in Political Discourse, including the Chinese political discourse and English translation from 2013 to 2022. http://hdl.handle.net/11667/280 Title: Survey of septic tanks in Scotland Dataset Description (Abstract): This dataset comprises responses from septic tank users across Scotland. The data was collected for a study aimed at understanding Perceptions of, and attitudes towards, faecal pollution risk to watercourses among septic tank users in rural catchments. The dataset has responses to 19 core questions asked in the survey. Responses were recorded for multiple-choice questions asked to identify the type of STS survey participants use and corresponding treatment levels denoted by the discharge point, STS age and proximity to the nearest surface watercourse. Additional responses were recorded for questions aimed at exploring the management practices STS users engage in, including factors that support or hinder the effective maintenance of their STS. Participants were also asked to respond to a series of awareness and perception-based statements on a four-point Likert scale, indicating their level of agreement or disagreement. The statements addressed concerns about water quality impacts from STS, environmental risks of leaking effluent, the effectiveness of additional treatment in reducing microbial pollution, health risks from poorly maintained STS, adequacy of STS regulations, and knowledge of potential system damage from deep-rooted vegetation and improper rainwater connections The dataset also included socio-demographic information, including age, gender, and region of residence within Scotland. http://hdl.handle.net/11667/279 Title: Austen Plays Database, 1895-2026 Dataset Description (Abstract): This database catalogues stage adaptations of Jane Austen's novels from 1895 to the present day. The database includes professional, amateur, and student stage productions adapting one or more of Austen's novels, juvenilia, or unfinished works, together with biographical plays in which Austen appears as a character. Where available, each entry records: title, author/composer/director, date of publication or first performance, the text adapted, notable performances, whether a script survives, archive location and call numbers, reviews, notable performers, and contextual notes. The dataset was compiled as part of my PhD research at the University of Stirling on stage adaptations of Jane Austen's novels.