Degree Name

MA in Intercultural Service, Leadership, and Management

First Advisor

Paul Levasseur

Abstract

Autism is a complex neurobiological disorder that typically lasts throughout a person’s lifetime. It impairs a persons’ ability to communicate with and relate to others. It occurs in all racial, ethnic and social groups. Approximately 67 million people worldwide are affected by autism. More children will be diagnosed with autism this year than with diabetes, cancer and AIDS combined.

With the growing population of children with autism entering their adulthoods, the question must be asked - “ What kinds of help do people with autism and their caretakers need during the transition into adulthood?”

Through a series of six interviews conducted with the people in families, schools, institutes, and organizations involved with the issue around New England, this question is researched and other relevant issues are examined.

Discovered are the themes of a need for increased support for autistic young adults in the areas of communication skills development, the development of strategies for seeking and keeping employment, and opportunities for social interaction.

These findings serve as a tool to point practitioners of social services and other professionals involved with autistic people towards directions of further research in the goal of finding effective solutions for creating their future.

Disciplines

Adult and Continuing Education and Teaching | Disability and Equity in Education | Social Welfare | Special Education and Teaching

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