Program logic model and impacts perceived by stakeholders in a post-school transition program for autistic young adults

Abstract

BackgroundAutistic young adults frequently experience challenges in their transition to adulthood. Despite the available research base describing isolated transition practices, efforts to document comprehensive programs combining multiple components in community settings are scant. This study aimed to explore stakeholders’ experience of a post-school transition program, including their perceived program components, processes, and impacts that contributed to the program success. MethodWe conducted individual qualitative interviews with 17 program stakeholders, including autistic students, parents, mentors, community collaborators, and program staff. Findings were used to create a logic model that describes how various program components and processes effect changes in autistic youths and their parents. ResultsResults revealed that the program values are focused on student-led participation, a strength-based approach, individualization and customization, and professional development. Program activities holistically fostered development in the autistic youth through processes of imparting career-related knowledge, facilitating ecologically relevant practice, and providing supportive peers and environment. Stakeholders described heightened sense of self-awareness, self-esteem, independence, social competence, and preparedness for the future in autistic young adults, while parents also gained the trust and confidence in fostering autonomy in their adult children. ConclusionsTransition program that integrates multiple components and processes informed by the evidence-based literature can facilitate career construction and development in autistic youth. Program model developed based on stakeholders’ input can offer rich information about how a program works in a naturalistic context, which can support future program adaptaion and replication to meet the needs of diverse communities and settings.