Date of Conferral
1-28-2025
Degree
Ph.D.
School
Public Policy and Administration
Advisor
Mark Gordon
Abstract
Individuals diagnosed with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) experience a range of cognitive disorders and other health issues that pose significant barriers for transition from youth to adulthood, especially when they are attempting to secure employment, housing, and medical services. Federal, state, and local jurisdictions have created a patchwork of disparate standards and applications, leading to significant service gaps in needed to achieve a successful transition to adulthood. The problem is that there is a lack of criteria for service models for these individuals. The purpose of this general qualitative study was to examine the efficacy of models of assistance for individuals with ASD transitioning into adulthood. Normalization process theory was used to identify themes and criteria. Data were collected through semi-structured interviews with 11 participants, including eight individuals who were stakeholders with close familial connections of the targeted individuals, two program directors, and a counselor who specialized in counseling individuals with ASD between ages 16 and 22. Critical themes were identified. Findings indicated that effective service models include early engagement in the process of assistance. People with ASD should be treated individually to address special needs; attempts should be made to acknowledge that the individual as a whole person. Lack of coordination means that caretakers need to be the driver of the assistance and have a long-term plan or objective. Positive social change might be possible when key criteria are employed in useful models of assistance for neurodivergent individuals transitioning to adulthood.
Recommended Citation
Tippett, Donald Clayton, "Policy Models to Assist Transitioning of Individuals With Autism Spectrum Disorder" (2025). Walden Dissertations and Doctoral Studies. 17243.
https://scholarworks.waldenu.edu/dissertations/17243
