Model System:

TBI

Reference Type:

Journal

Accession No.:

J75655

Journal:


Research in Developmental Disabilities

Year, Volume, Issue, Page(s):

, 53-54, , 61-72

Publication Website:

Abstract:

A retrospective records review examined the services provided and outcomes achieved for 64 individuals with autism spectrum disorders (ASD) who were referred for supported employment services by a state vocational rehabilitation services agency. Employment specialists engaged in situational assessment, discovery, job development, customized job descriptions, on-site training and support, positive behavioral supports, and job retention techniques. The employment specialists were responsible for tracking their actual time spent working directly with or for the jobseeker with ASD. All vocational rehabilitation clients with ASD served during this time successfully secured competitive integrated employment (CIE), and maintained their employment with ongoing supports, with intensity of support time decreasing over time. Results showed that using supported employment with significant use of customized employment, 63 of the 64 individuals (98.4 percent) successfully secured CIE in 72 unique employment positions. Of the majority of the individuals who secured employment, 50 individuals (77 percent) indicated that they had never worked before and additional 12 (18 percent) reported having short intermittent histories of employment. Despite this lack of employment experience, in all cases the jobseeker directed the job search and ultimately the job selection. This study shows how customized employment can capitalize on the strengths of job seekers with ASD while also meeting the needs of the business.

Author(s):


Wehman, Paul, Brooke, Valerie, Brooke, Alissa M., Ham, Whitney, Schall, Carol, McDonough, Jennifer, Lau, Stephanie, Seward, Hannah, Avellone, Lauren

Participating Centers: