Research Database: Article Details

Citation:  Jenssen, K.J., & Van Stratton, J.E. (2021). Delivering behavior analytic services in an inclusive job setting for a young adult with autism spectrum disorder: A case example. Journal of Vocational Rehabilitation, 55 (1), 107-144.
Title:  Delivering behavior analytic services in an inclusive job setting for a young adult with autism spectrum disorder: A case example
Authors:  Jenssen, K.J., & Van Stratton, J.E.
Year:  2021
Journal/Publication:  Journal of Vocational Rehabilitation
Publisher:  IOS Press
DOI:  https://doi.org/10.3233/JVR-211150
Full text:  https://content.iospress.com/articles/journal-of-vocational-rehabil...   
Peer-reviewed?  Yes
NIDILRR-funded?  Yes

Structured 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.
Purpose:  This paper outlines a behavior analytic approach to providing job coaching supports in collaboration with employers in an inclusive setting.
Data collection and analysis:  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.
Findings:  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.

Disabilities served:  Autism / ASD
Populations served:  Adults
Interventions:  Supported employment
Vocational rehabilitation
Behavior support
Customized employment
Outcomes:  Employment acquisition
Full-time employment