Affiliations: Zurich University of Applied Sciences, School of
Health Professions, Institute Occupational Therapy, Winterthur,
Switzerland | European Master of Science in Occupational Therapy,
Hogeschool van Amsterdam, Amsterdam, The Netherlands | Institute of Advanced Studies in Socialethics, Salzburg, Austria | Division of Occupational Therapy, Department of
Rheumatology and Clinical Immunology/Allergology, University Hospital
(Inselspital), and University of Bern, Bern, Switzerland
Note: [] Address for correspondence: Beate Krieger, Zurich University of
Applied Sciences, Institute Occupational Therapy, Technikumstrasse 71, CH-8401
Winterthur, Switzerland. Tel.: +41 58 934 63 47; E-mail:
[email protected]
Abstract: Objective: Research has shown that comparatively few adults with
Asperger Syndrome (AS) participate in the competitive work force. The purpose
of this study was to gain in-depth knowledge about contextual factors, which
contribute to successful labor market participation in some adults with AS. Participants: This study was conducted by indepth-interviewing six
adults with AS working in the competitive job market in Switzerland. Methods: A developmental and hermeneutic narrative approach was used
for data collection and analysis. Two in-depth narrative interviews were
conducted with each participant. A narrative analysis according to the theories
of Paul Ricoeur was performed. Results: Results showed that participants received pre-vocational
requisites during their childhood through parents and friends that provided a
feeling of security in social contexts. For participants, a supportive school
setting resulted in academic achievements. The narratives reveal participants'
capacities for understanding and adapting to social norms. Participants'
understanding of their own needs was essential to the successful labor market
participation. However, disclosure is rare and social stigma is still
present. Conclusions: This study showed that successful labor participation
of adults with AS can be enhanced through adequate social support already in
the early stages of an individual's lifetime.
