"The largest study* ever conducted of high functioning adults with Asperger's Syndrome and Autism was completed in 2001. The researchers followed hundreds of young adults on the autism spectrum who had high IQ's and good language. 50% of these bright individuals went on to higher education after high school. Yet, at the time of the study:
Only 12% were employed
Only 3% could live independently
Over 65% had almost no social contact outside of their family
None were married or involved in a significant emotional relationship
Over 75% of children currently diagnosed with an Autism Spectrum Disorder (Autism Spectrum Disorders (ASD)) have at least average intellectual potential and adequate language development, placing them on the "high functioning" end of the spectrum. Yet, as this and other studies clearly demonstrate, their academic achievement and language proficiency are not sufficient to attain a quality of life. Despite significant progress in evaluation and treatment of ASDs, the prognosis for quality of life for people on the spectrum remains poor.
Yet the myth that language and academic achievement equals success continues to be communicated even by some "expert" professionals.
* National Autistic Society (NAS) of Great Britain.
Findings in other studies conducted in the US, Ireland and Sweden have produced almost identical results".
I hope the interventions we are trying on our children produce a more favorable outcome.
Elise
Only 12% were employed
Only 3% could live independently
Over 65% had almost no social contact outside of their family
None were married or involved in a significant emotional relationship
Over 75% of children currently diagnosed with an Autism Spectrum Disorder (Autism Spectrum Disorders (ASD)) have at least average intellectual potential and adequate language development, placing them on the "high functioning" end of the spectrum. Yet, as this and other studies clearly demonstrate, their academic achievement and language proficiency are not sufficient to attain a quality of life. Despite significant progress in evaluation and treatment of ASDs, the prognosis for quality of life for people on the spectrum remains poor.
Yet the myth that language and academic achievement equals success continues to be communicated even by some "expert" professionals.
* National Autistic Society (NAS) of Great Britain.
Findings in other studies conducted in the US, Ireland and Sweden have produced almost identical results".
I hope the interventions we are trying on our children produce a more favorable outcome.
Elise