CARAS
Research about human sexuality is important for two reasons. First it helps us gain a better understanding of ourselves as individuals. Second, such research can be used to show that the broad spectrum of human sexuality - especially those parts of the spectrum that have been labeled "alternative" - are normal and healthy.
Given our society's puritanical nature (at least on the surface), how can we collect accurate research data about human sexuality?
What can be done to make sure that these studies are scientifically sound?
How can we be sure that members of the alt-sex community are treated (and represented) fairly in this research?
How can we ensure that no one is re-creating the wheel, and that the results of these studies are accessible?
The Community-Academic Consortium for Research on Alternative Sexualities (CARAS) is a non-profit organization that supports alternative sexuality (alt-sex) research nationwide.
I heard about CARAS in passing through my connections with the Polyamory Leadership Network (a loose affiliation of local/national poly leaders). They are in the process of working with poly leaders and community members on studies related to polyamory.
From the website:
CARAS is dedicated to the support and promotion of excellence in the study of alternative sexualities, and the dissemination of research results to the alternative sexuality communities, the public, and the research community.
The "cheat sheet" for what CARAS does can be found on their brochure to researchers.
CARAS is currently focused on research for the understudied areas of human sexuality: non-monogamy (polyamory, swinging, and other forms) and BDSM/kink/fetish.
Within CARAS, there is a Research Advisory Council that is made up of alt-sex community members and scholars. The RAC reviews proposals and partners with the researcher to ensure research that is sound, ethical, and can benefit the community that is being studied. In addition to internal support and resources, CARAS endorsement of a study can be used to solicit community support.
CARAS is also an information clearinghouse. In addition to publishing research online, they also provide access to scholars and clinicians through a speaker's bureau.
In addition to free-form donations, CARAS provides the option for individuals or groups to become members. They have many membership subscription options, depending on if you are a supporter, student, professional, or organization.
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About Jessica K
Jessica Karels is a writer, speaker, and workshop facilitator that is helping to bring about greater public awareness about polyamory. She has been a council member for the St. Paul - Minneapolis polyamory group, MNPoly, since 2004.
In addition to leading on a local level, Jessica is helping to build a poly-friendly web presence. Her blog, Young Metro Poly, consists of her writings about poly leadership development as well as her personal musings about being Generation Y, a corporate professional, and openly polyamorous.
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