Caregiver perceptions and experiences surrounding employment of their adult‐aged children on the autism spectrum

Abstract

AbstractObjectiveThe objective of this study was to explore and describe the experiences and perspectives of familial caregivers as active participants in the employment processes of their adult‐aged children on the autism spectrum.BackgroundMany adults on the autism spectrum experience barriers to meaningful and lasting employment. Caregivers are often highly involved in their adult children's employment process; however, caregiver experiences are largely absent from the literature on employment for adults on the autism spectrum.MethodThis study used semistructured interviews to examine 51 caregivers' experiences and perceptions related to their adult children's employment process. Themes were derived using a phenomenological approach.ResultsBroad themes that emerged were (a) motivation for employment and independence, (b) variability of job training experiences, and (c) negative experiences surrounding employment. Additional subthemes are identified with representative quotations.ConclusionFindings suggest that caregivers play a key role in the employment process for many adults on the autism spectrum and that their experiences include positive feelings of support and motivation, as well as negative perceptions and interactions.ImplicationsUnderstanding caregivers' experiences offers practitioners and policymakers insight into the needs of the families of individuals on the autism spectrum through a family system perspective. The results of this study have implications for policy and practice related to transition‐ and employment‐related training and supports.