Research Article

Article Details

Citation:  urley-Hanson, A.E.; Giannantonio, C.M.; Hyde, K.; Linstead, E.; Wiegand, R.; & Brady, J. (2023). Enhancing employment outcomes for autistic youth: Using machine learning to identify strategies for success. Journal of Vocational Rehabilitation, 59 (2), 153-168.
Title:  Enhancing employment outcomes for autistic youth: Using machine learning to identify strategies for success
Authors:  urley-Hanson, A.E.; Giannantonio, C.M.; Hyde, K.; Linstead, E.; Wiegand, R.; & Brady, J.
Year:  2023
Journal/Publication:  Journal of Vocational Rehabilitation
Publisher:  IOS Press
DOI:  https://doi.org/10.3233/JVR-230034
Full text:  https://content.iospress.com/articles/journal-of-vocational-rehabil...    |   PDF   
Peer-reviewed?  No
NIDILRR-funded?  No

Structured abstract:

Background:  The employment rates of autistic young adults continue to be significantly lower than that of their neurotypical peers.
Purpose:  Researchers in this study sought to identify the barriers and facilitators associated with these individuals’ transition into the workforce to better understand how educators and stakeholders can support students’ post-secondary career plans.
Data collection and analysis:  Investigators used a classification tree analysis with a sample of 236 caregivers of autistic individuals, who completed an online survey.
Findings:  The analysis identified critical factors in predicting successful employment for respondents 21 years and under and those over 21 years old. These factors included: difficulties in the job search process, challenges with relationships at work, resources used, job maintenance, motivation to work, and the application process.
Conclusions:  These findings represent the first use of machine learning to identify pivotal points on the path to employment for autistic individuals. This information will better prepare school-based professionals and other stakeholders to support their students in attaining and maintaining employment, a critical aspect of achieving fulfillment and independence. Future research should consider the perspectives of other stakeholders, autistic individuals and employers, and apply the findings to the development of interventions.

Disabilities served:  Autism / ASD