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9662 "The Cool Aspies": Social Model for Adults with ASD in Inclusive Community Settings [BCBA Session]

Saturday, July 15, 2017: 8:30 AM-9:45 AM

Room: 101B (Wisconsin Center )

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This presentation highlights a model for providing social and leisure opportunities to young adults with autism and related disorders within natural community settings. Participants will review fundamentals of a self-determination model for developing independent social functioning. Tips and resources to develop a similar model of social support will be provided.

Social deficits in individuals with autism include impairment in social interactions, difficulty establishing and maintaining peer relationships, a lack of shared enjoyment of interests and accomplishments of others, and a general lack of social-emotional reciprocity(APA, 2000). Social participation is an indicator of life quality and overall functioning (Orsmond et. Al 2013), however a study of 19 young adults with autism revealed that only 16% reported to have at least one friend their own age with which they shared a variety of interests and social activities (Howlin, Mawhood, and Rutter, 2000). Young adulthood is a high-risk developmental period for the onset of mental health conditions, particularly depression and anxiety in the ASD population (Farely, et. Al, 2009, Hofvander et. Al., 2009). Creating opportunities for social engagement for individuals with ASD during adulthood may improve quality of life as well as lessen the impact of comorbid conditions (Orsmond, et. al., 2013). Programs aimed at improving social skills deficits should promote actual participation in social and recreational activities, yet studies evaluating the effectiveness of such programs have generally not examined outcomes such as friendships and participation in daily social activities. (Snell and Vogtle, 1997)

This presentation provides an overview of a model for providing social and leisure opportunities to young adults with autism and related disorders. Club members meet bi-weekly at venues such as restaurants, parks, theaters, and museums throughout their local community. The group model encourages self-determination and empowerment by having members select and organize events, arrange transportation, and communicate via social media. Members are expected and encouraged to use email, smartphones, and public transportation with increasing levels of independence.

Suggestions and tips for replicating a similar model are included in the presentation. Target audience members include teachers, therapists, parents, adults with ASD, and members of the autism community.

Objectives:

To present the current research on the quality of social interaction in adults with ASD and how it relates to quality of life indicators.
To evaluate the effects of a facilitated social club for young adults with ASD on those identified indicators.
To provide suggestions for other educators, service providers, and other members of the ASD community on how to create a similar model.

Learning Objectives:

Recognize the how the impairments in social interaction and social relationships can greatly impact the quality of life for adults on the autism spectrum.
Review research which supports a self-determination model for providing social and leisure opportunities to young adults with autism and related disorders.
Examine practical information and resources for replicating a similar group model in their communities.

Track: Life Stage 4 - Adulthood

Content Area: Social Connections

Presenters:

Sarah DiGioia, M.S., BCBA, LBA
Cool Aspies of Alexandria

Sarah is a Board Certified, Licensed Behavior Analyst and Certified Special Education Teacher. She has over 20 years of experience serving individuals with autism and other developmental disabilities of all ages. Specialties include naturalistic teaching strategies, treatment of challenging behaviors and treating adolescent and adult populations.

Deborah Hammer, PRSE
Cool Aspies of Alexandria

Deborah Hammer is an Autism Specialist with Arlington (Virginia) Public Schools, where she provides training and support to school staff, parents, and students. She serves on the Fairfax Area Disability Services Board. She is also the founder of Cool Aspies and co-chair of the Northern Virginia Transition Coalition.

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