This unit addresses the tie period from about 30 years through the end of life. Much less is known about ASD in this period than in the early stages of life. In the past decade, greater attention has been made to enhancing or knowledge about adults on the spectrum than ever before (Mazefsky & White, 2014). This unit addresses some of the key issues of this life period.
Mazefsky, C.A. & White, S.W. (2014). Adults with autism. In Volkmar, F.R., Rogers, S.J., Paul, R., & Pelfrey, K.A. (Eds.) Handbook on autism and pervasive developmental disorders, fourth edition, vol.1: Diagnosis, development, and brain mechanisms (pp. 191-211). NY: John Wiley & Sons, Inc.
This reading (chapter 8) addresses multiple issues facing adults with ASD including the transition from secondary education to college or employment, identification of ASD in adulthood, and family and intimate relationships.
Howlin, P. (2014). Outcomes of adults with autism spectrum disorders. In Volkmar, F.R., Rogers, S.J., Paul, R., & Pelfrey, K.A. (Eds.) Handbook on autism and pervasive developmental disorders, fourth edition, vol.1: Diagnosis, development, and brain mechanisms (pp. 97-116). NY: John Wiley & Sons, Inc.
This reading (chapter 4) addresses the outcomes of adults with ASD and includes the topics of supported employment, mental health, mortality, life expectancy and quality of life.
