Support for adults with autism spectrum disorder without intellectual impairment: Systematic review. (August 2018)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Lorenc, Theo; Rodgers, Mark; Marshall, David; Melton, Hollie; Rees, Rebecca; Wright, Kath; Sowden, Amanda
• Is Part Of: Autism. Volume 22:Number 6(2018)
• Page Start: 654
• Page End: 668
• Publication Date: 2018-08
• Subjects: adults -- autism spectrum disorders -- interventions – psychosocial/behavioural -- policy -- quality of life -- vocational/labour force participation; Autism -- Periodicals; Autism in children -- Periodicals; 616.85882005
• DOI: 10.1177/1362361317698939
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 1362-3613

Abstract

Adults with autism spectrum disorder without intellectual impairment may benefit from a range of support services. This article presents the results of a systematic review assessing the effectiveness of supportive interventions for adults with autism spectrum disorder without intellectual impairment. A total of 32 studies were included; most focused on younger male participants. Although evidence was lacking for most types of intervention, employment programmes and social skills training were found to be effective for more proximal outcomes such as social skills. Evidence that any intervention improves mental health or well-being was very limited. Most interventions focused on mitigating specific deficits, rather than on providing broader support. Further research is needed on the effectiveness of supportive interventions such as advocacy and mentoring.