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To be understood: Transitioning to adult life for people with Autism Spectrum Disorder

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  • Craig Thompson
  • Sven Bölte
  • Torbjörn Falkmer
  • Sonya Girdler

Abstract

Introduction: The purpose of this study was to explore the viewpoints of parents of young people with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) in relation to their child’s transition to adulthood. Methods: Data were collected during four structured focus groups with 19 parents of young people with ASD with average to high intellectual capacities. Condensed meaning units were identified and checked during focus groups, and were subsequently linked to the International Classification of Functioning, Disability and Health (ICF). Results: Three major themes emerged: to be understood, to understand the world and to succeed. The ICF domains of activity and participation and environmental factors emerged as having the greatest potential to influence transition outcomes. Conclusions: Policies and services should focus on strengths to maximise participation in higher education, employment and independent living amongst young people with ASD. Interventions targeting environmental factors could be effective in improving participation in adult life. Person-centred and individualised approaches could further complement this approach supporting the transition to adulthood for people with ASD, ultimately improving outcomes in adulthood.

Suggested Citation

  • Craig Thompson & Sven Bölte & Torbjörn Falkmer & Sonya Girdler, 2018. "To be understood: Transitioning to adult life for people with Autism Spectrum Disorder," PLOS ONE, Public Library of Science, vol. 13(3), pages 1-16, March.
    • Handle: RePEc:plo:pone00:0194758
    DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0194758
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    References listed on IDEAS

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    1. Falkmer, Marita & Barnett, Tania & Horlin, Chiara & Falkmer, Olov & Siljehav, Jessica & Fristedt, Sofi & Lee, Hoe C. & Chee, Derserri Y. & Wretstrand, Anders & Falkmer, Torbjörn, 2015. "Viewpoints of adults with and without Autism Spectrum Disorders on public transport," Transportation Research Part A: Policy and Practice, Elsevier, vol. 80(C), pages 163-183.
    2. Melissa Scott & Marita Falkmer & Sonya Girdler & Torbjörn Falkmer, 2015. "Viewpoints on Factors for Successful Employment for Adults with Autism Spectrum Disorder," PLOS ONE, Public Library of Science, vol. 10(10), pages 1-15, October.
    3. Timo Lorenz & Cora Frischling & Raphael Cuadros & Kathrin Heinitz, 2016. "Autism and Overcoming Job Barriers: Comparing Job-Related Barriers and Possible Solutions in and outside of Autism-Specific Employment," PLOS ONE, Public Library of Science, vol. 11(1), pages 1-19, January.
    4. Andrew Jacob & Melissa Scott & Marita Falkmer & Torbjörn Falkmer, 2015. "The Costs and Benefits of Employing an Adult with Autism Spectrum Disorder: A Systematic Review," PLOS ONE, Public Library of Science, vol. 10(10), pages 1-15, October.
    5. Chiara Horlin & Marita Falkmer & Richard Parsons & Matthew A Albrecht & Torbjorn Falkmer, 2014. "The Cost of Autism Spectrum Disorders," PLOS ONE, Public Library of Science, vol. 9(9), pages 1-11, September.
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    Cited by:

    1. Timothy Callaghan & Steven Sylvester, 2019. "Autism spectrum disorder, politics, and the generosity of insurance mandates in the United States," PLOS ONE, Public Library of Science, vol. 14(5), pages 1-22, May.

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