Training Needs and Challenges in Supporting Young Adults with Autism to Access Integrated Employment
DOI
https://doi.org/10.25772/BTW1-CQ19
Author ORCID Identifier
https://orcid.org/0000-0002-8891-7125
Defense Date
2022
Document Type
Dissertation
Degree Name
Doctor of Philosophy
Department
Special Education
First Advisor
Yaoying Xu
Second Advisor
Carol Schall
Third Advisor
Kevin Sutherland
Fourth Advisor
Kelli Gary
Abstract
The purpose of this study was to conduct a needs assessment identifying the current level of training, training needs, and challenges to supporting adults with autism and significant support needs, such as challenging behavior, to access integrated employment. Foundational literature in employment indicates that employment service providers must possess an expansive skillset in order to perform the expectations of their profession. Research on supporting adults with autism to access employment indicates that skills above the traditional employment skills may be needed in order to obtain and maintain employment. This was one of the first studies to assess the needs of staff providing employment services to adults with autism. Study findings indicate that employment service providers continue to have high training needs in skills integral to the provision of employment services to individuals with disabilities but also training needs specific to serving adults with autism, to include challenging behavior and needs related to the primary and secondary characteristics of autism. Service provider self-reported training needs and challenges indicate that facilitating employment for this population will require a multi-faceted approach to target all stakeholders.
Rights
© The Author
Is Part Of
VCU University Archives
Is Part Of
VCU Theses and Dissertations
Date of Submission
12-15-2022