The Relationship of Employment and Social Deficits in Adults with Autism Spectrum Disorder

Deficits in social interaction and social communication are life-long in individuals with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD). These social deficits contribute to the difficulty many adults have finding and maintaining employment. Employment for every adult has benefits of pay and independence, but the benefits of the social interaction provided in a work environment may be especially important for adults with ASD. For other populations, employment is associated with improved social behaviors. The purpose of this study is to determine if the positive relationship between employment and social skills holds true for adults with ASD. Additionally, this study investigates the effect of comorbid diagnoses, especially ID and Anxiety disorders, on employment and social skills. There are few interventions designed for adults with ASD; if employment is demonstrated to have a positive effect on the social deficits of these adults, focus can be placed on successfully integrating adults with ASD into employment settings.Master of Scienc