Monday, January 20, 2014

Vocational Activities and Autism

The Journal of Autism and Developmental Disabilities published research that examined the relationship over time between behavioral functioning (autism symptoms, maladaptive behaviors, activities of daily living) and vocational/educational activities of 153 adults (mean age of 30.2 years) with autism spectrum disorders (ASD). 

The results were the following:

  • greater vocational independence and engagement was related to reductions in autism symptoms and maladaptive behaviors, and improvements in activities of daily living. 
  • there was no statistical significance in the relationship between earlier behavioral variables (symptoms, behaviors, and activities of daily living) and later vocational independence.
Reference: Julie Lounds Taylor, Leann E. Smith, Marsha R. Mailick. Engagement in Vocational Activities Promotes Behavioral Development for Adults with Autism Spectrum Disorders. Journal of Autism and Developmental Disorders. November 2013 DOI 10.1007/s10803-013-2010-9.





The Life Skills Checklists help track progress towards routine life skills needed to succeed in the school, home and community.

2 comments:

Autism United said...

Thanks for the checklist.

Unknown said...

My friend told me about how much physical therapy can help autistic patients. I have also heard that the rhythmic walking of horses helps as well. I bet that the people at PT Northwest help autistic patients.

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