Adults with autism spectrum disorders: a review of outcomes, social attainment, and interventions.

PURPOSE OF REVIEW: With the increasing incidence of individuals diagnosed with autism spectrum disorders, there is a need to develop programs to support them throughout their lifespan but research in adulthood support is still scarce. This article aims to provide an up-to-date review of the research on the core characteristics of autism spectrum disorder (ASD), social attainments, and efforts to improve their outcomes.

RECENT FINDINGS: The core social communication impairments continue into adulthood among persons with ASD, but the restrictive, repetitive patterns of behavior and activities have received less attention. Adults with ASD experience more behavioral and emotional regulation issues than their peers. In terms of social attainments, adults with ASD have a greater tendency to be overeducated for their jobs and have a lower employment rate. They are also more likely to live with their parents. Interventions make a positive impact upon social communication skills and employment.

SUMMARY: Future research could focus on the repetitive behavior of adults with ASD. Likewise, interventions examining the extent to which repetitive behavior and interests can be managed, as well as the degree to which they can be supported in their community access, living arrangements, as well as family quality of life can be further conducted.