The Lived Experiences and Perspectives of People with Autism Spectrum Disorder in Mainstream Employment in Australia

Individuals with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) experience significant barriers to employment. This study aimed look at the support received by individuals ASD in gaining and maintaining open employment from their perspective. A phenomenological approach was adopted participants (n = 9) participating semi-structured interviews. Thematic analysis identified four key themes; being supported, feeling successful, career progression expectations. The findings suggest that receive many different sources including supervisors, co-workers parents. they disability consultants more focused on obtaining a job rather than maintenance or progression. Career rarely discussed consultant, despite some evidence of poor matches unused qualifications skills (reflecting investment for society). Despite this, reported successful due having job, pride work, valued co-workers. highlights need research understanding longer-term needs people Changes policy better resource incentivize providers could produce positive outcomes throughout working lives.