1
|
Vigna E, Meek A, Beyer S. Supported employment, quality of jobs and employment typicalness: The experience of the Engage to Change project. JOURNAL OF APPLIED RESEARCH IN INTELLECTUAL DISABILITIES 2024; 37:e13226. [PMID: 38520180 DOI: 10.1111/jar.13226] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/06/2023] [Revised: 02/26/2024] [Accepted: 03/02/2024] [Indexed: 03/25/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Paid employment represents a challenge for people with an intellectual disability and/or autism. This paper analyses the quality of jobs offered by the Engage to Change project and their relationship to the 'typicalness' of the employment offered. METHOD Data on the quality of 384 paid jobs were collected, including hours worked and wages earned, and reported social integration at work. The typicalness of the employment experience was assessed for 141 young people, using the Index of Typicalness of Placement Questionnaire. RESULTS The Engage to Change project offered a wide range of jobs. There is no difference in the typicalness of the employment experience in relation to the interactions in the workplace, but there are some differences in the recruitment process for men and women. CONCLUSION Job coaches should make sure that, despite the procedures being 'atypical' for the workplace, the outcome is 'a typical employment experience' for each employee.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Elisa Vigna
- National Centre for Mental Health, School of Medicine, College of Biomedical and Life Sciences, Cardiff University, Cardiff, UK
| | - Andrea Meek
- National Centre for Mental Health, School of Medicine, College of Biomedical and Life Sciences, Cardiff University, Cardiff, UK
| | - Stephen Beyer
- National Centre for Mental Health, School of Medicine, College of Biomedical and Life Sciences, Cardiff University, Cardiff, UK
| |
Collapse
|
2
|
Goldfarb Y, Assion F, Begeer S. Where do autistic people work? The distribution and predictors of occupational sectors of autistic and general population employees. AUTISM : THE INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF RESEARCH AND PRACTICE 2024:13623613241239388. [PMID: 38497251 DOI: 10.1177/13623613241239388] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 03/19/2024]
Abstract
LAY ABSTRACT Studies on employment of autistic individuals mainly assessed if they work and what their working conditions are (e.g. weekly hours, salary) while less is known about where they work. We explore this issue in our study, by examining which employment sectors do autistic adults work in, and comparing them to the general workforce in the Netherlands. We also explored the possibility that gender, age, age at diagnosis, level of education, degree of autistic traits and presence of focused interests could lead to a higher likelihood of working in specific sectors. We assessed data from a survey filled in by 1115 employed autistic adults (476 male; 627 female; 12 other; mean age: 40.75). Dutch workforce information was based on data form the Central Bureau of Statistics. Results showed that a higher proportion of autistic employees worked in healthcare & welfare, information technology, and the public-army-charity sectors. These were the three most-common sectors for this group. A lower proportion of autistic employees worked in economics & finances, and industry & construction, compared to the general workforce. Most autistic employees in the healthcare & welfare sector were females while having a higher educational degree and being male increased the chance of working in information technology. In addition to the common impression that most autistic individuals have interests or abilities that align with employment in information technology and technology sectors, we found that autistic employees worked in various sectors. It is important to address individual characteristics and needs of autistic individuals, while encouraging diverse employment opportunities.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | - Franziska Assion
- Section Clinical Developmental Psychology, Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam and the Netherlands and Amsterdam Public Health Research Institute, The Netherlands
| | - Sander Begeer
- Section Clinical Developmental Psychology, Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam and the Netherlands and Amsterdam Public Health Research Institute, The Netherlands
| |
Collapse
|
3
|
Woods SEO, Estes A. Toward a more comprehensive autism assessment: the survey of autistic strengths, skills, and interests. Front Psychiatry 2023; 14:1264516. [PMID: 37867767 PMCID: PMC10587489 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyt.2023.1264516] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/20/2023] [Accepted: 09/18/2023] [Indexed: 10/24/2023] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Sara Eileen O'Neil Woods
- Autism Center, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, United States
- Institute on Human Development and Disability, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, United States
- Discover Psychology Services, Lacey, WA, United States
| | - Annette Estes
- Autism Center, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, United States
- Institute on Human Development and Disability, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, United States
- Department of Speech and Hearing Sciences, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, United States
| |
Collapse
|
4
|
Reich K, Dalferth M. [From the Placement Paradigm to Sustainable Support of Companies in the Integration of People with High-Functioning Autism - Results of an Employer Survey]. DIE REHABILITATION 2023; 62:289-298. [PMID: 37040873 DOI: 10.1055/a-1998-6630] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 04/13/2023]
Abstract
As part of the AUT-1A project, 123 employers were surveyed by questionnaires about their experiences with the employment of autistic employees. The aim was to identify the factors that promote and hinder employment. The study indicates that the vocational qualification in vocational training centers (BBW) has a positive effect on sustainable employment of people with autism spectrum diagnosis (ASD), but the support for companies is not sufficient yet. Also, a lack of education regarding autism-friendly environmental design as well as a lack of education about the diagnosis autism of the direct colleagues could be worked out.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Katrin Reich
- Wissenschaftliche Projektleitung, Berufsbildungswerk St. Franziskus Abensberg
| | - Matthias Dalferth
- Fakultät für Angewandte Sozial- und Gesundheitswissenschaften, OTH Regensburg
| |
Collapse
|
5
|
Amat AZ, Adiani D, Tauseef M, Breen M, Hunt S, Swanson AR, Weitlauf AS, Warren ZE, Sarkar N. Design of a Desktop Virtual Reality-Based Collaborative Activities Simulator (ViRCAS) to Support Teamwork in Workplace Settings for Autistic Adults. IEEE Trans Neural Syst Rehabil Eng 2023; 31:2184-2194. [PMID: 37104107 DOI: 10.1109/tnsre.2023.3271139] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 04/28/2023]
Abstract
Autistic adults possess many skills sought by employers, but may be at a disadvantage in the workplace if social-communication differences negatively impact teamwork. We present a novel collaborative virtual reality (VR)-based activities simulator, called ViRCAS, that allows autistic and neurotypical adults to work together in a shared virtual space, offering the chance to practice teamwork and assess progress. ViRCAS has three main contributions: 1) a new collaborative teamwork skills practice platform; 2) a stakeholder-driven collaborative task set with embedded collaboration strategies; and 3) a framework for multimodal data analysis to assess skills. Our feasibility study with 12 participant pairs showed preliminary acceptance of ViRCAS, a positive impact of the collaborative tasks on supported teamwork skills practice for autistic and neurotypical individuals, and promising potential to quantitatively assess collaboration through multimodal data analysis. The current work paves the way for longitudinal studies that will assess whether the collaborative teamwork skill practice that ViRCAS provides also contributes towards improved task performance.
Collapse
|
6
|
Sejima K, Uozumi R, Murai T, Funabiki Y. Ambivalent effects of highly estimated personal strengths on adaptive functioning and internalizing symptoms in non-clinical autistic females. CURRENT PSYCHOLOGY 2023. [DOI: 10.1007/s12144-023-04285-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 03/15/2023]
|
7
|
Brown CE, Beauchamp MT, Nowell KP, Bernardin CJ, Kanne SM. The network structure of the Special Interests Survey. Autism Res 2023; 16:379-393. [PMID: 36515154 DOI: 10.1002/aur.2862] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/15/2021] [Accepted: 11/21/2022] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
Despite the prevalence of special interests (SIs) in autistic youth, research on SIs and how they are characterized is limited. Indeed, a significant challenge in identifying and classifying SIs lies in capturing the vast and diverse scope of potential interests in this population. The recently developed Special Interest Survey (SIS) is a caregiver-report measure to improve SI characterization by capturing a broad range of past and current SIs. In the present study, we performed a network analysis of the SIS to examine relations between SIs and identify distinct interest clusters. We analyzed data from 1992 caregivers of autistic youths who completed the SIS. The network of SIs was densely interconnected, characterized by six communities of interests: Fact-seeking, Engineering, Order-seeking, Object Attachment, Entertainment, and Scholarly Pursuits. Findings suggest that the structure of the observed network is likely to generalize to similar samples. Of all the SIs and their respective communities, behaviors related to Fact-seeking were identified as the most central, meaning that endorsement of these interests was most strongly related to co-endorsement of other SIs. These findings lay the groundwork for future work on SIs, such as improved assessment techniques and linkage of SIs to a broad range of demographic variables, youth characteristics, and autism symptoms.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Cynthia E Brown
- School of Graduate Psychology, Pacific University, Hillsboro, Oregon, USA
| | | | - Kerri P Nowell
- Department of Health Psychology, Thompson Center for Autism and Neurodevelopment, University of Missouri, Columbia, Missouri, USA
| | - Courtney J Bernardin
- Department of Psychological Sciences, University of Missouri, Columbia, Missouri, USA
| | - Stephen M Kanne
- Department of Psychiatry and Center for Autism and the Developing Brain, Weill Cornell Medical College, White Plains, New York, USA
| |
Collapse
|
8
|
Bross LA, Huffman JM, Hagiwara M. Examining the special interest areas of autistic adults with a focus on their employment and mental health outcomes. JOURNAL OF VOCATIONAL REHABILITATION 2022. [DOI: 10.3233/jvr-221218] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/06/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND: Many individuals with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) have special interest areas (SIAs) which are characterized by significant depth and breadth of knowledge in a particular topic. These interests can continue through adulthood. OBJECTIVE: We conducted this study to develop a better understanding of the relation between SIAs and employment and mental health outcomes of adults with ASD. METHODS: Qualitative and quantitative analyses were used to examine the data with an emphasis on bringing autistic voices to the forefront of the discussion. Seventy-two adults with ASD, ages 18–53, completed an online survey describing their SIA engagement, employment status, and current mental health measured by two standardized assessments. Respondents provided open-ended responses describing their SIA and beliefs regarding SIAs broadly. RESULTS: Open-ended responses indicated adults with ASD have highly diverse SIAs that are rarely utilized in their employment experiences. Hierarchical regressions revealed SIA-related bullying was associated with higher levels of depression, anxiety, and stress. SIA employment was associated with depression such that those who were not currently employed in their SIA reported higher levels of depression. Respondents without support from people in their life related to their SIA reported higher levels of stress. CONCLUSION: SIAs are extremely important in the lives of autistic adults and should be utilized to enhance their employment experiences and overall well-being. Family members, adult service providers, and educational professionals should support and encourage SIAs.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Leslie Ann Bross
- Department of Special Education and Child Development, University of North Carolina at Charlotte, Charlotte, NC, USA
| | | | - Mayumi Hagiwara
- Department of Special Education, San Francisco State University, San Francisco, CA, USA
| |
Collapse
|
9
|
Weber C, Krieger B, Häne E, Yarker J, McDowall A. Physical Workplace Adjustments to Support Neurodivergent Workers: A Systematic Review. APPLIED PSYCHOLOGY-AN INTERNATIONAL REVIEW-PSYCHOLOGIE APPLIQUEE-REVUE INTERNATIONALE 2022. [DOI: 10.1111/apps.12431] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Clara Weber
- Institute of Facility Management, School of Life Sciences and Facility Management, Zurich University of Applied Sciences, Wädenswil, Switzerland; and Environmental Psychology Department School of Psychology University of Surrey Guildford UK
- Department of Environmental Psychology, School of Psychology University of Surrey Guildford UK
| | - Beate Krieger
- Institute of Occupational Therapy, School of Health Science Zurich University of Applied Sciences Winterthur Switzerland
| | - Eunji Häne
- Institute of Facility Management, School of Life Sciences and Facility Management, Zurich University of Applied Sciences, Wädenswil, Switzerland; and Environmental Psychology Department School of Psychology University of Surrey Guildford UK
| | - Joanna Yarker
- Department of Organizational Psychology Birkbeck University of London London United Kingdom
| | - Almuth McDowall
- Department of Organizational Psychology Birkbeck University of London London United Kingdom
| |
Collapse
|
10
|
Maykel C, Kaufman JC. The assessment of creativity for people with autism spectrum disorder. PSYCHOLOGY IN THE SCHOOLS 2022. [DOI: 10.1002/pits.22729] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/08/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Cheryl Maykel
- Division of Education and Counseling Rivier University Nashua New Hampshire USA
| | - James C. Kaufman
- Neag School of Education University of Connecticut Mansfield Connecticut USA
| |
Collapse
|
11
|
Stratton E, Glozier N, Woolard A, Gibbs V, Demetriou EA, Boulton KA, Hickie I, Pellicano E, Guastella AJ. Understanding the vocational functioning of autistic employees: the role of disability and mental health. Disabil Rehabil 2022; 45:1508-1516. [PMID: 35508414 DOI: 10.1080/09638288.2022.2066207] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/03/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE Employment rates for autistic people are low, despite increasing employment-focused programmes. Given the reported complexities for autistic people in finding and keeping work and flourishing there, further exploration is needed to understand how best to help employers accommodate autistic employees. MATERIAL AND METHODS We assessed 88 employed autistic adults, without comorbid intellectual disability and examined whether self-reported disability and mental health symptoms were associated with two measures of vocational functioning: disability days off work and vocational disability. RESULTS Nearly half (47%) reported at least one disability day absence in the previous month. Autism severity and IQ were not associated with either measure of vocational functioning. Greater disability and higher mental health symptoms were associated with both types of vocational functioning. However, the associations of anxiety and stress with both vocational outcomes were attenuated to null in a multivariable model. Disability (B = 6.74, p = 0.009; B = 1.18, p < 0.001) and depression (B = 4.46, p = 0.035; B = 1.01, p = 0.049) remained independently associated with both outcomes. CONCLUSIONS Clinicians and vocational support programmes addressing modifiable factors may need to focus on addressing mental health comorbidities, specifically depression rather than anxiety, or core features of autism to improve vocational outcomes for autistic people. Implications for RehabilitationIndividual-level interventions that reduce disablement, particularly in social areas, and depressive symptoms as a way of reducing days off work and improving workplace activities in autistic employees are recommended.Organisations can accommodate autistic employees by encouraging use of mental health programmes or looking at how the workplace environment can be adapted to limit social disability.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Elizabeth Stratton
- Autism Clinic for Translational Research, Brain and Mind Centre, Children's Hospital Westmead Clinical School, Faculty of Medicine and Health, University of Sydney, Camperdown, Australia.,Faculty of Medicine and Health, Central Clinical School, The University of Sydney, Sydney, Australia
| | - Nick Glozier
- Faculty of Medicine and Health, Central Clinical School, The University of Sydney, Sydney, Australia
| | - Alix Woolard
- Autism Clinic for Translational Research, Brain and Mind Centre, Children's Hospital Westmead Clinical School, Faculty of Medicine and Health, University of Sydney, Camperdown, Australia
| | - Vicki Gibbs
- Macquarie School of Education, Macquarie University, Sydney, Australia
| | - Eleni A Demetriou
- Autism Clinic for Translational Research, Brain and Mind Centre, Children's Hospital Westmead Clinical School, Faculty of Medicine and Health, University of Sydney, Camperdown, Australia
| | - Kelsie A Boulton
- Autism Clinic for Translational Research, Brain and Mind Centre, Children's Hospital Westmead Clinical School, Faculty of Medicine and Health, University of Sydney, Camperdown, Australia.,Child Neurodevelopment and Mental Health Team, Brain and Mind Centre, Children's Hospital Westmead Clinical School, Faculty of Medicine and Health, University of Sydney, Camperdown, Australia
| | - Ian Hickie
- Brain and Mind Centre, Faculty of Medicine and Health, The University of Sydney, Sydney, Australia
| | | | - Adam J Guastella
- Autism Clinic for Translational Research, Brain and Mind Centre, Children's Hospital Westmead Clinical School, Faculty of Medicine and Health, University of Sydney, Camperdown, Australia.,Child Neurodevelopment and Mental Health Team, Brain and Mind Centre, Children's Hospital Westmead Clinical School, Faculty of Medicine and Health, University of Sydney, Camperdown, Australia
| |
Collapse
|
12
|
Pacione L. Telehealth-delivered caregiver training for autism: Recent innovations. Front Psychiatry 2022; 13:916532. [PMID: 36620655 PMCID: PMC9811175 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyt.2022.916532] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/09/2022] [Accepted: 11/23/2022] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Providing treatment to children with autism is a global health priority, and research demonstrates that caregivers can be trained in techniques to promote their child's social interaction, communication, play, positive behavior and skills. These caregiver-mediated interventions have been shown to promote a number of positive outcomes in children with autism, as well as their caregivers. When provided by telehealth, data indicate that caregiver training is acceptable and feasible, and associated with similar positive outcomes as live face-to-face training. Telehealth innovations, which have accelerated during the COVID-19 era, have demonstrated advantages over in-person delivery of services in terms of cost effectiveness and increased accessibility, however, more research is needed on feasibility, acceptability and effectiveness for different populations in different contexts. This brief review will highlight recent caregiver skills training interventions for autism that have been successfully adapted or designed for telehealth delivery. Telehealth interventions that are scalable, adaptable, caregiver-mediated, open-access, and delivered as part of a stepped care model, have the potential to address the global treatment gap for families of children with autism and other neurodevelopmental disabilities. Considerations relevant to the global scale-up of caregiver-mediated interventions will also be discussed.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Laura Pacione
- Division of Child and Youth Mental Health, Department of Psychiatry, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada.,Department of Mental Health and Substance Use, World Health Organization, Geneva, Switzerland
| |
Collapse
|
13
|
Waisman-Nitzan M, Gal E, Schreuer N. "It's like a ramp for a person in a wheelchair": Workplace accessibility for employees with autism. RESEARCH IN DEVELOPMENTAL DISABILITIES 2021; 114:103959. [PMID: 33906027 DOI: 10.1016/j.ridd.2021.103959] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/16/2020] [Revised: 03/22/2021] [Accepted: 04/13/2021] [Indexed: 06/12/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND, AIMS AND METHODS Participation in employment by individuals with autism spectrum disorders (ASD) remains restricted despite their high motivation and evident abilities. Challenges to employment result from personal characteristics and environmental barriers. This phenomenological research explores the accessibility of a competitive work environment according to the perceptions of adults with ASD. PROCEDURES AND OUTCOMES We conducted in-depth interviews with 19 employees with ASD, followed by a thematic content analysis. Three themes emerged: (a) the employees' motivation for employment, (b) challenges and abilities at work, and (c) workplace accessibility (types of accommodations, implementation process). RESULTS AND CONCLUSIONS The findings contribute a classification of accommodations that addresses the core characteristics of autism-challenges as well as abilities and motivations for employment. Four types of accommodations were identified: job-performance communication, attitudes and interpersonal communication, daily workplace routines, and physical and sensory environments. Hence, this study supports the centrality of environmental factors in successful employment of individuals with ASD. IMPLICATIONS This study presents an evidence-based foundation for autism-related workplace accessibility. It offers an approach to enhance employees' abilities, strengths, and motivation for employment, as well as to decrease barriers and challenges. The findings may expand organizational policies regarding accessibility and thereby anchor workplace accommodations within organizations' corporate cultures.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Michal Waisman-Nitzan
- Dept. of Occupational Therapy, Faculty of Social Welfare & Health Sciences, University of Haifa, Mount Carmel, Haifa, 31905, Israel.
| | - Eynat Gal
- Dept. of Occupational Therapy, Faculty of Social Welfare & Health Sciences, University of Haifa, Mount Carmel, Haifa, 31905, Israel.
| | - Naomi Schreuer
- Dept. of Occupational Therapy, Faculty of Social Welfare & Health Sciences, University of Haifa, Mount Carmel, Haifa, 31905, Israel.
| |
Collapse
|
14
|
Daedelow LS, Beck A, Romund L, Mascarell-Maricic L, Dziobek I, Romanczuk-Seiferth N, Wüstenberg T, Heinz A. Neural correlates of RDoC-specific cognitive processes in a high-functional autistic patient: a statistically validated case report. J Neural Transm (Vienna) 2021; 128:845-859. [PMID: 34003357 PMCID: PMC8205905 DOI: 10.1007/s00702-021-02352-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/09/2020] [Accepted: 05/08/2021] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
The level of functioning of individuals with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) varies widely. To better understand the neurobiological mechanism associated with high-functioning ASD, we studied the rare case of a female patient with an exceptional professional career in the highly competitive academic field of Mathematics. According to the Research Domain Criteria (RDoC) approach, which proposes to describe the basic dimensions of functioning by integrating different levels of information, we conducted four fMRI experiments targeting the (1) social processes domain (Theory of mind (ToM) and face matching), (2) positive valence domain (reward processing), and (3) cognitive domain (N-back). Patient’s data were compared to data of 14 healthy controls (HC). Additionally, we assessed the subjective experience of our case during the experiments. The patient showed increased response times during face matching and achieved a higher total gain in the Reward task, whereas her performance in N-back and ToM was similar to HC. Her brain function differed mainly in the positive valence and cognitive domains. During reward processing, she showed reduced activity in a left-hemispheric frontal network and cortical midline structures but increased connectivity within this network. During the working memory task patients’ brain activity and connectivity in left-hemispheric temporo-frontal regions were elevated. In the ToM task, activity in posterior cingulate cortex and temporo-parietal junction was reduced. We suggest that the high level of functioning in our patient is rather related to the effects in brain connectivity than to local cortical information processing and that subjective report provides a fruitful framework for interpretation.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Laura S Daedelow
- Department of Psychiatry and Psychotherapy CCM, Charité-Universitätsmedizin Berlin, corporate member of Freie Universität Berlin, Humboldt-Universität Zu Berlin, and Berlin Institute of Health, Berlin, Germany
| | - Anne Beck
- Health and Medical University Potsdam, Potsdam, Germany
| | - Lydia Romund
- Department of Psychiatry and Psychotherapy CCM, Charité-Universitätsmedizin Berlin, corporate member of Freie Universität Berlin, Humboldt-Universität Zu Berlin, and Berlin Institute of Health, Berlin, Germany
| | - Lea Mascarell-Maricic
- Department of Psychiatry and Psychotherapy CCM, Charité-Universitätsmedizin Berlin, corporate member of Freie Universität Berlin, Humboldt-Universität Zu Berlin, and Berlin Institute of Health, Berlin, Germany
| | - Isabel Dziobek
- Berlin School of Mind and Brain, Berlin, Germany.,Department of Psychology, Humboldt-University of Berlin, Berlin, Germany
| | - Nina Romanczuk-Seiferth
- Department of Psychiatry and Psychotherapy CCM, Charité-Universitätsmedizin Berlin, corporate member of Freie Universität Berlin, Humboldt-Universität Zu Berlin, and Berlin Institute of Health, Berlin, Germany
| | - Torsten Wüstenberg
- Department of Psychiatry and Psychotherapy CCM, Charité-Universitätsmedizin Berlin, corporate member of Freie Universität Berlin, Humboldt-Universität Zu Berlin, and Berlin Institute of Health, Berlin, Germany. .,Department of Clinical Psychology and Psychotherapy, Psychological Institute, Ruprecht-Karls-University Heidelberg, Hauptstr. 47-51, 69117, Heidelberg, Germany.
| | - Andreas Heinz
- Department of Psychiatry and Psychotherapy CCM, Charité-Universitätsmedizin Berlin, corporate member of Freie Universität Berlin, Humboldt-Universität Zu Berlin, and Berlin Institute of Health, Berlin, Germany
| |
Collapse
|
15
|
Marciano H, Gal E, Kimchi R, Hedley D, Goldfarb Y, Bonneh YS. Visual Detection and Decoding Skills of Aerial Photography by Adults with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD). J Autism Dev Disord 2021; 52:1346-1360. [PMID: 33948824 DOI: 10.1007/s10803-021-05039-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 04/20/2021] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
Abstract
Despite challenges in social communication skills people with ASD often display strengths in visual processing. Aerial photography analysis is an occupation reliant on strong visual processing skills that matches this unique profile. We investigated basic-vision and "real-life" visual tasks in 20 cognitively-able young adults with ASD and 20 typically-developed (TD) "gamers". Basic-vision tests included Visual-Search, Embedded-Figures, and Vigilance; "real-life" tests included aerial-photograph detection and identification. Groups performed equally well, and did not differ significantly on any tasks. The study demonstrates strong visual skills in people with ASD in basic and "real-life" settings, and supports the idea that they may be well suited for employment in occupations that demand high visual perception skills such as aerial photography analysis.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Hadas Marciano
- The Institute of Information Processing and Decision Making (IIPDM), Ergonomics and Human Factors Unit, University of Haifa, 199 Aba Khoushy Ave. Mount Carmel, 3498838, Haifa, Israel. .,Stress and Resilience Research Center, Tel-Hai College, Qiryat Shemona, Israel.
| | - Eynat Gal
- Department of Occupational Therapy, University of Haifa, Haifa, Israel
| | - Ruth Kimchi
- Department of Psychology and Institute of Information Processing and Decision Making, University of Haifa, Haifa, Israel
| | - Darren Hedley
- Olga Tennison Autism Research Centre, School of Psychology and Public Health, La Trobe University, Melbourne, Australia
| | - Yael Goldfarb
- Department of Occupational Therapy, University of Haifa, Haifa, Israel
| | - Yoram S Bonneh
- School of Optometry and Vision Science, Faculty of Life Science, Bar-Ilan University, Ramat Gan, Israel
| |
Collapse
|
16
|
Bury SM, Hedley D, Uljarević M, Gal E. The autism advantage at work: A critical and systematic review of current evidence. RESEARCH IN DEVELOPMENTAL DISABILITIES 2020; 105:103750. [PMID: 32810716 DOI: 10.1016/j.ridd.2020.103750] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/15/2019] [Revised: 06/28/2020] [Accepted: 07/22/2020] [Indexed: 06/11/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Despite difficulties entering the workforce, people on the autism spectrum are often successful. Furthermore, they are suggested to bring unique abilities (e.g., attention to detail, tolerance for repetitive tasks) related to the repetitive and restrictive behaviours and interests (RRBI) diagnostic domain, that may be advantageous in employment. AIMS This critical and systematic review examined evidence supporting the superior workplace performance of employees on the autism spectrum, particularly regarding the RRBI domain. METHOD AND PROCEDURES A systematic review (PRISMA guidelines) evaluated empirical peer-reviewed studies that assess employees on the autism spectrum's performance in the workplace or on work-specific tasks. Nine databases were searched, with additional papers identified from reference lists and consultation. OUTCOMES AND RESULTS Two quantitative and four qualitative papers met criteria. Results reflect themes; attention to detail, tolerance of repetitive tasks, special/circumscribed interests, other RRBI related advantages/concerns. CONCLUSIONS AND IMPLICATIONS Due to the nature and quality of the identified studies there is currently no strong evidence supporting or negating a workplace autism advantage. This review highlights the need for more research and urges constraint in utilising stereotypes that may not apply to all on the autism spectrum, arguing an individual differences approach to supporting autism strengths at work.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Simon M Bury
- Olga Tennison Autism Research Centre, School of Psychology and Public Health, La Trobe University, VIC, Australia.
| | - Darren Hedley
- Olga Tennison Autism Research Centre, School of Psychology and Public Health, La Trobe University, VIC, Australia
| | - Mirko Uljarević
- Stanford Autism Center, Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, School of Medicine, Stanford University, CA, USA; University of Melbourne, VIC, Australia
| | - Eynat Gal
- University of Haifa, Department of Occupational Therapy, Haifa, Israel
| |
Collapse
|
17
|
Bury SM, Flower RL, Zulla R, Nicholas DB, Hedley D. Workplace Social Challenges Experienced by Employees on the Autism Spectrum: An International Exploratory Study Examining Employee and Supervisor Perspectives. J Autism Dev Disord 2020; 51:1614-1627. [PMID: 32809168 DOI: 10.1007/s10803-020-04662-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
Social challenges represent a significantly under-researched area when it comes to the poor employment outcomes in autism. In this exploratory study employees on the autism spectrum (N = 29) and supervisors (N = 15), representing seven continents, provided 128 written examples of workplace-based social challenges, their interpretation, consequences and resolution. Content analysis revealed that types of social challenges were individually oriented or associated with the work-environment. Social challenges were frequently attributed to internal or personal factors with direct consequences for the employee. Resolutions were more frequently targeted toward the individual than the workplace, and hindered employees' experience of work. This international study represents a first look at the types of social challenges that impact equitable work participation of autistic people.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Simon M Bury
- Olga Tennison Autism Research Centre, School of Psychology and Public Health, La Trobe University, Melbourne, VIC, Australia.
| | - Rebecca L Flower
- Olga Tennison Autism Research Centre, School of Psychology and Public Health, La Trobe University, Melbourne, VIC, Australia.,Department of Psychology and Counselling, La Trobe University, Bendigo, Australia
| | - Rosslynn Zulla
- Faculty of Social Work, University of Calgary, Alberta, Canada.,School of Public Health, University of Alberta, Alberta, Canada
| | | | - Darren Hedley
- Olga Tennison Autism Research Centre, School of Psychology and Public Health, La Trobe University, Melbourne, VIC, Australia
| |
Collapse
|
18
|
Goldfarb Y, Gal E, Golan O. A Conflict of Interests: A Motivational Perspective on Special Interests and Employment Success of Adults with ASD. J Autism Dev Disord 2019; 49:3915-3923. [PMID: 31177369 DOI: 10.1007/s10803-019-04098-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
Abstract
A course of action often suggested in an attempt to improve employment outcomes of adults with autism spectrum disorder, is to match between special interests and job opportunities. In this commentary, we propose that the match may be more complicated than it seems, possibly overseeing more pressing employment needs that should be answered such as: the job's characteristics, labor market demands, and stress resulting from job expectations. Self determination theory of motivation is suggested as a lens through which the association between special interests and a paying job can be examined, highlighting important considerations that hold the potential to increase employment success. Recommendations for new research directions and vocational rehabilitation practice are discussed.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Yael Goldfarb
- Department of Occupational Therapy, University of Haifa, Haifa, Israel.
| | - Eynat Gal
- Department of Occupational Therapy, University of Haifa, Haifa, Israel
| | - Ofer Golan
- Department of Psychology, Bar-Ilan University, Ramat-Gan, Israel
| |
Collapse
|
19
|
Principles for Successful Employment Integration of People with HF-ASD. AUTISM IN ADULTHOOD 2019. [DOI: 10.1007/978-3-030-28833-4_7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/26/2022]
|
20
|
Brief Report: Character Strengths in Adults with Autism Spectrum Disorder Without Intellectual Impairment. J Autism Dev Disord 2016; 46:3330-7. [DOI: 10.1007/s10803-016-2865-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
|
21
|
Schmidt L, Kirchner J, Strunz S, Broźus J, Ritter K, Roepke S, Dziobek I. Psychosocial Functioning and Life Satisfaction in Adults With Autism Spectrum Disorder Without Intellectual Impairment. J Clin Psychol 2015; 71:1259-68. [DOI: 10.1002/jclp.22225] [Citation(s) in RCA: 40] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/11/2022]
|
22
|
Reiersen AM, Bölte S. Special Issue on the Topic of Autism Spectrum Disorder. Scand J Child Adolesc Psychiatr Psychol 2013. [DOI: 10.21307/sjcapp-2014-008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/11/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Angela M. Reiersen
- Department of Psychiatry, Washington University School of Medicine , Missouri , United States
| | - Sven Bölte
- Department of Women’s and Children’s Health, Neuropsychiatry Unit, Center of Neurodevelopmental Disorders (KIND), Karolinska Institutet , Stockholm , Sweden
| |
Collapse
|