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Title: Autism in the Workplace: Assessing the Transition Needs of Young Adults with Autism Spectrum Disorder

Authors: Amy-Jane Griffiths; Cristina M. Giannantonio; Amy E. Hurley-Hanson; Donald N. Cardinal

Addresses: Author address listing can be found in the "About the Authors" section at the end of the article.

Abstract: Over the next decade, close to half a million people with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) will reach adulthood. Research suggests that the career and life outcomes for young adults with ASD are poor as compared with those of the general population. Nevertheless, there is relatively little research on the work experiences of young adults with ASD that focuses on their career aspirations, preparation for work, career experiences, and the barriers associated with their transition into the world of work. Given the large numbers of young adults with ASD who are exiting secondary school and vocational training programs, it is imperative to understand the issues associated with their transition into the world of work. The purpose of this study, which utilizes a survey questionnaire and focus group, is to assess the transition needs and experiences of young adults with ASD as they prepare to enter the workplace. The results indicate that young adults with ASD face significant transition barriers when navigating the world of work and have certain transition needs. Policy implications for the transition needs identified are presented.

Keywords: Autism in the workplace; transition needs; young adults with ASD; career barriers; work transition.

DOI: 10.1504/JBM.2016.141233

Journal of Business and Management, 2016 Vol.22 No.1, pp.5 - 22

Published online: 05 Sep 2024 *