Collaborating and Communicating for a Successful Job Environment
Index
Abstract Page 3
Introduction Page 3-5
Education Page 6-7
Long-term Support Page 8-9
Employee Awareness Page 9
Job Training Page 10
Benefits Page 11
Conclusion Page 12
Bibliography Page 13
Abstract Adult individuals with autism spectrum disorders (ASD) face many obstacles in achieving steady, gainful employment. It is estimated that 50-75% of adults with ASD are unemployed (Hendricks, 2010). This paper reviews current research and scholarly articles related to employment for individuals with ASD. The unique communication and social impairments of individuals with ASD will be addressed, as well as how these characteristics affect job retention. Vocational services, barriers to employment, and various strategies and employment supports are discussed. This paper addresses the need for …show more content…
The aim of supported employment is to provide a stable and predictable work environment where an ASD individual can be a contributing member of the workforce. Individual strengths and interests are emphasized, as well as collaboration with families and job coaches, to ensure an appropriate fit that satisfies the employee and employer (García-Villamisar & Hughes, 2007). A study conducted by García-Villamisar & Hughes (2007) showed that autistic adults who worked in supported employment for a period of three years or more showed cognitive improvements in areas outside of job performance, as opposed to those in sheltered workshops or day programs (who showed no change in performance over