Affiliations: Department of Family and Consumer Studies, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, UT, USA
Correspondence:
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Address for correspondence: Cheryl A. Wright, Professor, Department of Family and Consumer Studies, University of Utah, 225 South 1400 East, Rm. 228, Salt Lake City, UT 84112-0080, USA. Tel.: +1 801 581 7712; Fax: +1 801 581 6112; E-mail: [email protected].
Abstract: BACKGROUND:Compared with people with other disabilities, individuals with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) have the lowest rates of employment and switch jobs at a higher frequency. Thus, understanding how to support workplace success for people with ASD is important. OBJECTIVE:Grounded in an ecological conceptual model, this study explores the dual employment perspectives of adults with ASD and supervisors who worked with individuals with ASD. METHODS:Using participatory research methods, a purposive sample of ten adults with ASD (all verbal with high school diplomas) and ten supervisors participated in semi-structured interviews on employment experiences. Qualitative analyses were used to identify themes. RESULTS:Four major themes emerged from an ecological framework to create a strong person-environment fit in the workplace: 1) building on interest/experiences/strengths/skills, 2) reducing social demands, 3) clear communication and expectations, and 4) ASD awareness for work environment. Comparisons between the two groups of participants showed substantive differences in expectations and accommodations. CONCLUSIONS:Supervisors, although eager to employ individuals with ASD, could benefit by employing an ecological model to successful employment. Results indicate that multiple lenses on the process of employment for those with ASD can lead to better outcomes in the workplace.
