In a new effort that aims to help adults with autism find love, UCLA Health has launched a new research study called PEERS for Dating.
PEERS (Program for the Education and Enrichment of Relational Skills) for Dating will offer a roadmap for forming and maintaining meaningful relationships, providing essential tools and support for individuals navigating the dating world with people who have autism.
“The growing interest in autism and dating reflects a broader cultural shift toward recognizing and embracing neurodiversity,” said Dr. Elizabeth Laugeson, developer of the PEERS program, in an email to The Debrief.
“As society becomes more inclusive, there’s greater awareness that autistic adults want and deserve meaningful romantic relationships, just like anyone else,” she said.
With the rise of TikTok videos, popular TV shows, and podcasts like The Telepathy Tapes—which reached number one on the charts, surpassing media giant Joe Rogan—society’s growing understanding of neurodiversity and life on the spectrum is reshaping how we view each other and navigate interpersonal relationships, especially in matters of the heart.
“Platforms like TikTok, podcasts, and TV shows have played a pivotal role in reshaping societal perceptions of neurodiversity and romantic relationships,” Laugeson explains. “By amplifying authentic voices and personal stories, social media has the power to break down stereotypes and foster greater understanding of the diverse experiences of autistic individuals. These platforms not only normalize the idea that autistic adults want and deserve romantic relationships but also create a space for education and advocacy.
“Programs like PEERS for Dating build on this momentum by equipping individuals with the skills to navigate these relationships confidently, bridging the gap between awareness and actionable support,” Laugeson said.
Harvard Health defines Neruodiverity as the idea that people experience and interact with the world around them in many different ways; there is no one “right” way of thinking, learning, and behaving, and differences are not viewed as deficits. Autism is one of many neurodiverse conditions, alongside others such as dyslexia and ADHD. While these conditions are all considered part of the neurodiversity spectrum, they do not always share the same range of characteristics. Autism and dyslexia, for example, are distinct conditions that have their unique variations and challenges, each with its own “spectrum” of diversity.
However, in recent years, Autism has become a focal point not only in pop culture but also in research. A recent study from the University of Cambridge published in PLOS Computational Biology highlights that individuals with stronger autistic traits, especially those who thrive on predictability, tend to approach tasks with a unique, curiosity-driven mindset.
But what about love on the spectrum?
“Romantic relationships can be transformative, but for many autistic adults, the path to connection can feel uncertain,” says Dr. Laugeson.
PEERS aims to solve this by blending research with the art of matchmaking. A globally recognized, evidence-based social skills program created by Dr. Elizabeth Laugeson at UCLA, PEERS has also been highlighted in the popular television series Love on the Spectrum (Australia).
“With PEERS for Dating, we are committed to providing evidence-based tools to empower participants to approach love with confidence, form lasting connections, and improve their overall quality of life,” Laugeson says.
The 20-week program, led by the UCLA Program for the Education and Enrichment of Relationship Skills (PEERS) Clinic, is designed to help participants navigate the often tricky social rules present in dating and relationships, by offering practical tools to foster deeper connections and a better understanding of romantic dynamics.
The PEERS Clinic is recruiting participants for a free, 20-week study in late January. The study is designed to teach practical skills for building romantic connections. Participants thought the program would teach strategies for choosing the right people to date, using online dating etiquette, improving conversational skills, expressing interest, asking someone out, navigating dates, handling dating pressure and rejection, and applying these skills in real-world situations.
“Providing a structured program like PEERS for Dating is crucial in empowering autistic adults to approach love with confidence.” Laugeson says. “Research shows that most autistic adults want to date and even get married, but many struggle with knowing how to initiate and maintain romantic relationships.”
“Without guidance, they are less likely to date or marry and often face romantic loneliness, as well as a heightened risk for sexual victimization and financial exploitation.”
“PEERS for Dating offers a safe, evidence-based framework that breaks down complex social skills into concrete, actionable steps, helping autistic individuals build healthy, fulfilling relationships,” Laugeson says.
Know someone looking for love on the spectrum? Spaces are limited, with the application deadline in late January. To apply for the PEERS for Dating study, contact the PEERS Clinic at peersclinic@g.ucla.edu.
Chrissy Newton is a PR professional and founder of VOCAB Communications. She hosts the Rebelliously Curious podcast, which can be found on The Debrief’s YouTube Channel. Follow her on X: @ChrissyNewton and at chrissynewton.com.