Simone Thomas

Dr. Simone Thomas is a Lecturer in the School of Psychological Sciences within the Faculty of Medicine, Nursing and Health Sciences at Monash University. She is affiliated with the Monash Pearson Alliance and has been actively conducting research on developmental disorders in children since at least 2016, with publications extending to 2022.

Dr. Thomas's research primarily focuses on autism spectrum disorder (ASD) and attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) in children, with particular emphasis on physical activity patterns, sedentary behavior, motor competence, and sleep problems. Her work frequently examines how these factors interact in children with developmental disorders compared to typically developing children. She has established a strong research trajectory investigating the relationship between physical activity and developmental outcomes in ASD, with implications for early intervention strategies.

Analysis of Dr. Thomas's publication history reveals a consistent focus on understanding behavioral and physical health factors in children with ASD and comorbid conditions. Her research demonstrates increasing complexity from early work on basic physical activity comparisons to more nuanced investigations of ecological correlates and motor competence. The research shows strong interdisciplinary connections between psychology, public health, and developmental medicine.

Dr. Thomas has been actively involved in research collaboration, most notably as a Chief Investigator on the ALLPLAY project (2016-2021), which examined sports participation outcomes for children with disabilities. She has presented her work at multiple international conferences including the International Society of Behavioral Nutrition and Physical Activity Conference, AMAZE Conference, and multiple International Association for the Scientific Study of Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities (IASSIDD) World Congress events between 2015-2019.

Her scholarly contributions include six peer-reviewed publications with significant citation impact, particularly her 2018 study on physical functioning in children with ADHD and comorbid ASD which has received 43 Scopus citations. Her research demonstrates strong collaborative networks with researchers including Professor Nicole Rinehart, Dr. Natalie Papadopoulos, and other specialists in child developmental disorders.