Construction of the Worker Situated on the Autism Spectrum: A Critical Interpretive Synthesis of Peer-Reviewed Literature on Transition for Youth With Disabilities

• In Event: Roundtable Session 18
  In Roundtable Session: High School and Beyond: Issues of Identity and Difference

Abstract

This systematic review explores the construction of workers situated along the Autism spectrum. Using a critical interpretive synthesis and drawing on disability studies and neoliberal critiques, we examined how 22 empirical and non-empirical articles depicted work for people on the Autism spectrum. The analysis yielded four constructions of Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD): 1) ASD is a deficit; 2) ASD is diverse; 3) ASD entails interests and strengths; and 4) Asperger’s Syndrome is better functioning. More complex accounts of ASD invited broader notions of work and much literature pitted ‘independence’ and ‘support’ in opposition. Academics may want to write in a way that expands the work and career possibilities for those situated along the Autism spectrum.

Authors

• Jennifer R. Wolgemuth, University of South Florida

• Mike Riley, University of South Florida

• Vonzell Agosto, University of South Florida

• Roderick Jones, University of South Florida