This book explores the career experiences of Generation A, the half-million individuals with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) who will reach adulthood in the next decade. With Generation A eligible to enter the workforce in unprecedented numbers, research is needed to help individuals, organizations, and educational institutions to work together to create successful work experiences and career outcomes for individuals with ASD. Issues surrounding ASD in the workplace are discussed from individual, organizational, and societal perspectives. This book also examines the stigma of autism and how it may affect the employment and career experiences of individuals with ASD. This timely book provides researchers, practitioners, and employers with empirical data that examines the work and career experiences of individuals with ASD. It offers a framework for organizations committed to hiring individuals with ASD and enhancing their work experiences and career outcomes now and in the future.

Autorentext

Amy E. Hurley-Hanson is Associate Professor of Management in the George L. Argyros School of Business and Economics at Chapman University, USA. She is the co-editor of Extreme Leadership: Leaders, Teams and Situations Outside the Norm.

Cristina M. Giannantonio is Professor of Human Resource Management in the George L. Argyros School of Business and Economics at Chapman University, USA. She is the co-editor of Extreme Leadership: Leaders, Teams and Situations Outside the Norm.

Amy-Jane Griffiths is a licensed psychologist and Assistant Professor of Clinical Counseling in the Attallah College of Educational Studies at Chapman University, USA. Her research and clinical work focus on improving educational and employment outcomes for individuals with exceptional needs.

Inhalt

Part I The Scope of the Issue

1. Generation A and Autism in the Workplace

2 The Stigma of Autism

3 The Costs of Autism

4 The Career Experiences of Individuals with ASD

Part II The Transition to Employment 5 The Transition Needs of Young Adults With Autism

6 Universities with Autism Initiatives

7 The Labor Market Skills Gap and Autism

8 Employers' Perspectives on Hiring Individuals with Autism

Part III The Employment of Individuals with Autism

9. Organizations with Autism Initiatives

10 Leadership and Autism

11 A Model for Hiring Individuals With Autism

12 The Benefits of Employing Individuals with Autism