Dissertation
A qualitative case study: exploring parents' support needs when an adolescent with autism spectrum disorder is preparing to transition to adult services
Doctor of Education (Ed.D.), Drexel University
2018
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.17918/D8396Q
Abstract
Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is pervasive developmental disorder that impacts an individual's ability to interact appropriately with others. Individuals with an ASD diagnosis struggle with communication impairments and challenging behaviors that cause them to be isolated from others and be reliant on others for daily care. Parents of individuals with a more severe ASD diagnosis assume the responsibilities of managing this life-long disorder. The purpose of this qualitative case study was to explore parents' support needs when an adolescent with a more severe ASD diagnosis is preparing to transition to adult services that provide supported employment and skill training programs. The study population was comprised of parents of adolescents with severe ASD and high school special education team members who work closely with adolescents with severe ASD. This study revealed that educators and policymakers need to create change in order to better support parents of adolescents with more severe ASD. It is necessary for high school special education teams to be sharing critical information with parents about workplace skills, independent living skills, and special education resources. With that information, parents can collaborate with educators to create realistic and stimulating future goals for their adolescents with severe ASD. This collaboration can be supported through the use of a transition team and a strong shift from academic learning to workplace learning.
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Details
- Title
- A qualitative case study
- Creators
- Rebecca A. March - DU
- Contributors
- Joyce A. Pittman (Advisor) - Drexel University (1970-)
- Awarding Institution
- Drexel University
- Degree Awarded
- Doctor of Education (Ed.D.)
- Publisher
- Drexel University; Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
- Number of pages
- 126 pages
- Resource Type
- Dissertation
- Language
- English
- Academic Unit
- School of Education (1997-2026); Drexel University
- Other Identifier
- 8076; 991014632680604721