A study has identified the need for special assistance for children with autism, who face multiple challenges while leaving autism centers when they "age out" of services and transition from childhood to adulthood.
Major Transition Issues Children With Autism Face
A study conducted by researchers at University of Missouri aimed to identify the challenges faced by youngsters with autism spectrum disorder or ASD once they leave autism centers.
Nancy Cheak-Zamora with Michelle Teti, an assistant professor and an associate professor respectively from the Department of Health Sciences, along with Jennifer First, a doctoral aspirant at the School of Social Work, examined the major causes of stress that impact adolescents with autism and their caregivers.
The study, published in the Journal of Family Social Work, focused on observing stress and coping issues for four groups of people with 13 youngsters with ASD and 19 caregivers. The major stress challenges reported were getting access to services, adjusting to transition changes, attaining higher or vocational education, making independent choices, setting goals, and handling several responsibilities at a time.
The major issues with coping were found to involve looking for opportunities for self-determination, getting assistance from community services, and receiving support from family, friends, and teachers.
Adolescents With ASD Need Extended Support
One of the participants of the study who works as a caregiver noted the lack of support from her community's autism center for the children who come of age and leave. According to her, youngsters with autism need extended support and services, as it is not easy to find help once these children reach a certain age.
First suggested that social workers can team up in structuring family groups that need assistance for adolescents with autism. She added that social workers should help families in coordinating essential services like respite care, mental health support, independent living, medical treatment, college support as well as enhanced vocational support.
Services Can Assist Growing Children With ASD To Face Challenges
The study concluded with suggestions given to aid social workers, consultants, and experts to assist youngsters with autism and their family and friends. The assistance can facilitate them in coping with the stress experienced during transition from childhood to adulthood.
"The challenges of living independently, gaining employment, attaining postsecondary education and building social relationships are greater for adolescents and young adults with autism," said Cheak-Zamora. "It is vital that professionals are prepared to assist with the transition, and that they have insight into adolescent and caregiver experiences during the difficult time of transitioning to adulthood."
