Transition for adolescents with autism spectrum disorder : parent and professional perspectives.

Abstract

Adolescents with Autism and their families experience a significant increase in the number and nature of challenges faced when leaving the structure of the formal education system. Increased support and planning is required in order to prepare for and better manage this period, as a successful transition is associated with family well-being. An ecosystemic approach was used in order to better understand the experiences of the individual, the family, the school and the community during this period. The purpose of this study was to gain an understanding of parent and professional perspectives on various elements of the transition process, including planning and support, predicted outcomes and the feelings experienced, in order to develop awareness, improved planning and consequently; outcomes. A sample of 14 participants (7 parents and 7 professionals) was engaged in semi-structured interviews. The results indicate that both parents and professionals feel an overwhelming sense of fear and uncertainty with regards to the future of the adolescent with Autism; however a sense of optimism and hope also exists, as participants reported effective interventions were beginning to occur. The knowledge and understanding of the needs of these individuals is continuously growing within the parents and professionals who are directly involved in the lives of adolescents with Autism; however increased awareness is required within the community and government sectors in order to gain increased access to resources and services. With the appropriate support, individuals with Autism can experience increased quality of life within residential, employment, social and community settings. The results of the current study are discussed with reference to previous research studies, and recommendations for further research are provided.