Adjusting to adulthood: Perspectives of young adults diagnosed with autism spectrum disorder regarding vocational, residential, and social need

As individuals with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) transition into adulthood, they are presented with new sets of challenges that may impede their personal development toward independence. Historically, adults on the autism spectrum have achieved lower rates of success in vocational, residential, and social domains compared to adults without the disorder. While a growing body of research exists for children with ASD, less is known about the outcomes and treatment options available for adults.;A phenomenological research approach was used in this study to explore the lived experiences of young adults with autism spectrum disorder to better understand the type of shared experiences unique to this population. The qualitative design of the study provided participants with an opportunity for self-advocacy, allowing them to highlight influential factors that either inhibited or benefited their progression toward independence and self-fulfillment.;Individual interviews were conducted with a total of seven participants, ranging in age between 20 and 28. The interviews served to identify the participants' personal experiences related to vocational, residential, and social concerns present in adulthood. Two primary themes to emerge from the data regarding vocational experiences included the value placed on employment and the social and physical challenges encountered while on the job. Themes to emerge from residential and social domains included the desire for independence and a lack of preparedness for romantic relationships. Regarding therapeutic outcomes, therapy was identified as a reliable source of support, most notably in skill building, conflict management, and emotional reciprocity.;The results of this study indicated high rates of obtained employment, low rates of independent living, and consistent interpersonal difficulties that negatively impacted the primary domains of the participants' lives. Three key attributes preferred in a counselor consisted of a willingness to listen, an ability to appropriately empathize with the experiences of individuals on the autism spectrum, and a capacity to explain and relate multiple points of view in an accessible manner.