Research Database: Article Details
| Citation: | Schall, C., Wehman, P., Avellone, L., & Taylor, J. (2020). Competitive integrated employment for youth and adults with autism: Findings from a scoping review. Child Adolescent and Psychiatric Clinics of North America, 29 (2), 373-397. |
| Title: | Competitive integrated employment for youth and adults with autism: Findings from a scoping review |
| Authors: | Schall, C., Wehman, P., Avellone, L., & Taylor, J. |
| Year: | 2020 |
| Journal/Publication: | Child Adolescent and Psychiatric Clinics of North America |
| Publisher: | Elsevier |
| DOI: | https://doi.org/10.1016/j.chc.2019.12.001 |
| Full text: | https://worksupport.com/research/documents/pdf/1s20S105649931930120... |
| Peer-reviewed? | Yes |
| NIDILRR-funded? | Yes |
Structured abstract:
| Background: | Individuals with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) face significantly greater challenges transitioning to adult life than peers without disabilities and peers with other types of disabilities. Research suggests that many individuals with ASD experience poor outcomes after leaving high school across a broad range of life domains. In addition, adolescents and young adults with ASD have higher incidences of anxiety and depressive disorders compared with peers without disabilities or other disabilities. A heightened risk of anxiety and depression, combined with a greater likelihood of unsatisfactory postsecondary outcomes in major life areas highlights the vulnerability of individuals with ASD. However, the current knowledge base concerning effective interventions for youth and adults with ASD is extremely limited. Employment is the defining activity of adulthood and acts as a protective factor in the acquisition of many key life domains. People with disabilities report that work is a source of identity, inclusion, financial support, and socialization. Even so, securing competitive integrated employment (CIE) remains a primary challenge for many young adults with ASD. Although federal legislation has mandated enhanced services for transition, many young adults with ASD still face unemployment on leaving secondary education settings. Findings from the 2017 National Autism Indicators Report showed that only 14% achieved paid work in an integrated setting, while the majority (54%) worked without pay usually in segregated settings. Furthermore, 27% of adults with ASD reported no participation in work or other integrated community activities. A review of employment outcomes for 47,312 individuals with ASD indicated an overall employment rate of only 37.57%. Overwhelmingly, evidence highlights the tremendous need to improve employment outcomes for youth with ASD. The purpose of this scoping review was to identify key research describing effective employment interventions and practices for individuals with ASD seeking CIE. |
| Populations served: |
Adults Transition-age students (14 - 22) |
| Interventions: |
Supported employment Customized employment |