Delivering behavior analytic services in an inclusive job setting for a young adult with autism spectrum disorder: A case example

Article type: Brief Report

Authors: Jenssen, Kayla J.^{; *} | Van Stratton, Jessica E.

Affiliations: Western Michigan University, Kalamazoo, MI, USA

Correspondence: [*] Address for correspondence: Kayla J. Jenssen, 1903 Western Michigan Avenue, Kalamazoo MI 49008-5439, USA. Tel.: +1 269 387 4363; E-mail: [email protected].

Abstract: BACKGROUND:The rate of employment for adults diagnosed with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) is low. This may be due in part to repetitive or disruptive behaviors associated with the ASD diagnosis and challenges to delivering services in the workplace. OBJECTIVE:This paper outlines a behavior analytic approach to providing job coaching supports in collaboration with employers in an inclusive setting. METHODS:A case example for a 26-year-old male (22 at the time of this project) diagnosed with ASD, employed as a data entry specialist, is highlighted. An A-B design was used to evaluate the impact of behavior analytic interventions on the rate of disruptive vocalizations. Behavior analysts and job coaches from a university-based team worked with employers to identify feasible and effective strategies. RESULTS:Rates of vocalizations decreased and maintained for 5 months following intervention fading. Social acceptability ratings from key office personnel reflected improved coworker relations and a high degree of acceptability for procedures used by the team. CONCLUSIONS:Employer collaboration was necessary for intervention design and decision making. Service providers should consider response effort for employers, the degree of normalization of strategies, how to limit disruption to productivity and the work setting, and methods for fading interventions or components of interventions.

Keywords: Behavior analysis, ASD, adults, employment

DOI: 10.3233/JVR-211150

Journal: Journal of Vocational Rehabilitation, vol. 55, no. 1, pp. 107-114, 2021