Description
Bringing together leading experts, this book presents effective practices for helping people with autism spectrum disorders (ASD) to thrive in adulthood. As individuals with ASD mature, their needs change as well. The book reviews the growing research base and describes ways to support adolescents and adults in succeeding in higher education and work, living independently, enjoying leisure activities, navigating meaningful personal relationships, and more. Specific behavioral and instructional interventions--such as functional communication training, positive behavior support, and applied behavior analysis--are discussed. Case examples illustrate practical aspects of applying the strategies in real-world school and community settings.
Chapter
1. Characteristics of Adults with High-Functioning Autism Spectrum Disorders
2. Autism Spectrum Disorders and the Family
II. Transitioning from Adolescence to Adulthood
3. Effective Secondary Education and Transition for Adolescents with Autism Spectrum Disorders
4. Postsecondary Education for Students with Autism Spectrum Disorders
III. Instructional and Behavioral Interventions to Promote Quality of Life
5. Behavioral Interventions for Complex Communication and Social Skills in Adults with Autism Spectrum Disorders
6. Teaching Functional Communication to Adults with Autism Spectrum Disorders
7. Positive Behavior Support for Adults with Autism Spectrum Disorders
8. Skill-Building Interventions for Adolescents and Adults with Autism Spectrum Disorders
9. Sexuality and Relationships for Individuals with Autism Spectrum Disorders
10. Toward a Balanced Leisure Lifestyle for Adults with Autism Spectrum Disorders
IV. Employment, Independence, Aging, and Policy
11. Meaningful Employment for Individuals with Autism Spectrum Disorders
12. Facilitating Successful Independent Living Skills for Adults with High-Functioning Autism Spectrum Disorders
13. Aging, Estate Planning, and Funding Services for Adults with Autism Spectrum Disorders
14. Legal Issues and Autism Spectrum Disorders