Understanding the Relationship Between Self-Determination Skills and Quality of Life of College Students With Autism Spectrum Disorder

• In Event: Friday Roundtable Session 7:45 am
  In Roundtable Session: Understanding Self-Determination, Lived Experiences, and Future Paths in Transition (Table 16)

Abstract

Using the World Health Organization Quality of Life- BREF (1997) and Chao’s (2016) Self-Determination Scale for College Students, the study examined college students with autism perceptions of their self-determination skills and quality of life (QoL). The study sought to identify the levels of self-determination skills and QoL of college students with autism and to understand the relationship between self-determination skills and the QoL. The data were analyzed using descriptive statistics, correlation, and multiple regression. Results demonstrated on average; participants reported, a mid-level in self-determination and QoL. Similar midpoint levels were found on individual self-determination subscales and QoL domains. The results confirmed the positive correlation and predictive relationship between self-determination and QoL. Educational implications and recommendations for future research are discussed.

Authors

• Jacqueline Lubin, Quinnipiac University

• Jerrie Brooks, Fort Hays State University

• Marsha E. Simon, Valdosta State University