Year 2017
Project Title Preparing Youth with Autism Spectrum Disorder to Transition to Employment
Participator Jasin Wong
Job Title Principal Investigator
Period 2017.05 ~ 2018.05
Unit Society for the Study of Occupation: USA Student Research Grant
Abstract Employment is an important occupation for transition-age youth with autism spectrum disorder 
(ASD). Secure employment is associated with increased self-esteem and improved adaptive skills. 
However, people with ASD have generally poor employment outcomes. Occupational therapists are well 
positioned to contribute to the provision of services in this emerging area of practice. The proposed 
research is focused on understanding best how to provide optimal support to high school students with 
ASD to promote successful employment. School personnel who currently provide vocational supports 
for this population can provide valuable information. In the proposed study, we will conduct a 
qualitative study and interview 10-20 school personnel about their experiences working with youth with 
ASD on employment; particularly their successful experiences. We aim to (1) understand school 
personnel’s experiences working students with ASD on employment; (2) explore how school personnel 
work with students with ASD to establish career goals based on their interests, strengths, expectations, 
and functional abilities; and (3) understand what factors school personnel consider when identifying the 
most appropriate work opportunities for students with ASD, including how they assess the meaning of 
work for students with ASD. We will conduct a narrative analysis to understand the dynamic 
transactions among student, environment (school personnel support), and employment experience. This 
study will contribute to the mission of occupational science by expanding our understanding of 
employment as an important occupation for youth with ASD and by exploring the interrelationships 
among the discipline of occupational science, the profession of occupational therapy and other related 
professions. 
Language English