Date of Conferral

2022

Degree

Doctor of Information Technology (D.I.T.)

School

Psychology

Advisor

Natalie Costa

Abstract

AbstractAutism spectrum disorders (ASD) is a neurodevelopmental disorder which causes an individual to have abnormalities in socialization and communication, and unusual behaviors and interests. Each year about a half million young adults with ASD transition from high school to adulthood; however, only 57% become employed. The current study’s purpose was to investigate how general knowledge of ASD and social interactions with those with ASD affected employers’ social attitudes and perceptions of those with ASD being employed by them. Social Contact theory employers who have more social interaction with individuals with ASD have more social knowledge about ASD.. The population for this quantitive study included 93 employers who completed an online survey consisting of questions about social interactions with individuals with ASD, general knowledge, social attitudes about ASD, and employee perceptions of ASD. Regression and correlation were used to examine the relationship between variables. The results showed a negative association that was not statistically significant between employers’ general knowledge about ASD and social attitude about ASD. Furthermore, there was a statistically significant positive correlation between employers’ amount of interaction with individuals with ASD and the social attitudes about ASD of employees. Additionally, it demonstrated a nonsignificant positive correlation between employers’ social interaction with individuals with ASD and the employers’ perceptions. Further research should focus on employers in larger corporations and businesses. The knowledge gained in the current study will lead to positive social change by increasing inclusivity in the workforce.

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