title: School-to-work transition and Asperger Syndrome.
abstract: Asperger Syndrome (AS) is a pervasive developmental disorder characterized by underdeveloped social and communication skills. Despite the fact that most individuals with AS have average to above average cognitive abilities, characteristics of the disorder can cause extreme difficulties in these two domains. While increased attention has been given to the developmental characteristics and educational support needs of children with AS, few studies have focused on the psychosocial and vocational characteristics of emerging adults with AS and the supports they need to succeed in the workplace. This article examines the school-to-work transition of individuals with AS. Psychosocial and vocational characteristics of AS are identified and potential work challenges for these individuals are discussed. The article concludes with specific recommendations for facilitating successful school-to-work transitions for consumers with AS.
authors.affiliation: University of Arkansas, Department of Rehabilitation, Human Resources, and Communication Disorders, Fayetteville, AR 72701, USA. kkhiggi@uark.edu
authors.forename: Kristin K
authors.initials: KK
authors.lastname: Higgins
authors.forename: Lynn C
authors.initials: LC
authors.lastname: Koch
authors.forename: Erica M
authors.initials: EM
authors.lastname: Boughfman
authors.forename: Courtney
authors.initials: C
authors.lastname: Vierstra
mesh_terms: D000328:Adult; D020817:Asperger Syndrome / Q000503:physiopathology / Q000534:rehabilitation*; D004651:Employment; D006801:Humans; D011584:Psychology; D012574:Schools; D017132:Workplace