Abstract
Abstract
Work is one of the most important ways of participating in society. However, work participation is less obvious for people with an autism spectrum disorder (ASD). They find difficulty in finding and keeping work. A supportive social environment in which work is an important aspect increases the chances of finding and retaining work.
Method
The role of the social support system (SSS) in relation to work participation in this target group was investigated in this study. The participants are from the longitudinal research 'Catching Up ?!'. All participants (N = 29), aged between 20 and 26 years, have been tested for (sub) clinical signs of ASD by means of the ADOS-2. From which two groups arose; a group with ASD (n = 14), the other group with subclinical symptoms of ASD (n = 15). Semi-structured interviews were conducted in which various aspects of labor participation, including the social environment, were discussed.
Results
The results show that individuals with ASD seem to benefit from a well-supportive SSS. For both groups it works well when the SSS provides them with advice and tips. The group of participants with ASD seems to need more support from the SSS, mainly in the mediation towards a possible new employer. Furthermore, there appears to be a need for more guidance / support aimed at improving communication skills.
Discussion
In order to be able to make more specific statements, specifically aimed at the social support system, further research is necessary. The results of this research come from an overarching research; 'Catching Up ?!', so that specification towards the social support system is limited. In addition, little research has been done on this subject specifically.
Work is one of the most important ways of participating in society. However, work participation is less obvious for people with an autism spectrum disorder (ASD). They find difficulty in finding and keeping work. A supportive social environment in which work is an important aspect increases the chances of finding and retaining work.
Method
The role of the social support system (SSS) in relation to work participation in this target group was investigated in this study. The participants are from the longitudinal research 'Catching Up ?!'. All participants (N = 29), aged between 20 and 26 years, have been tested for (sub) clinical signs of ASD by means of the ADOS-2. From which two groups arose; a group with ASD (n = 14), the other group with subclinical symptoms of ASD (n = 15). Semi-structured interviews were conducted in which various aspects of labor participation, including the social environment, were discussed.
Results
The results show that individuals with ASD seem to benefit from a well-supportive SSS. For both groups it works well when the SSS provides them with advice and tips. The group of participants with ASD seems to need more support from the SSS, mainly in the mediation towards a possible new employer. Furthermore, there appears to be a need for more guidance / support aimed at improving communication skills.
Discussion
In order to be able to make more specific statements, specifically aimed at the social support system, further research is necessary. The results of this research come from an overarching research; 'Catching Up ?!', so that specification towards the social support system is limited. In addition, little research has been done on this subject specifically.
| Translated title of the contribution | The role of the social support system in work participation among young people with an autism spectrum disorder |
|---|---|
| Original language | Dutch |
| Publisher | Science Shop, University of Groningen |
| Number of pages | 63 |
| Publication status | Published - Sept-2018 |