A narrative approach to career identity construction of autistic adults

Abstract

Due to the growing prevalence of autism diagnosis, counselors in various settings are more likely to encounter autistic adults seeking employment-related counseling and support. Research on employment in the field of autism has focused mostly on a person-environment fit perspective, which does not take into account the complexity of career behavior and contemporary developments in vocational psychology. The current study examined career narratives of autistic adults, with the aim of understanding how they perceive their work experiences and construct their career identities in relation to labor market norms. Twelve autistic employees took part in narrative interviews, which were analyzed employing dialogical narrative analysis. Findings revealed the recurrence of two major themes, conceptualized as a two-dimensional ‘autism career identity construction model’: (1) adapting vs. defiant views on job market demands and career norms, and (2) acceptance vs. rejection of the autism diagnosis. Findings illustrate ways in which autistic individuals position themselves in relation to both dimensions. The possible contribution of the model to theoretical understandings in the field is discussed, as well as potential applications for career counseling and vocational rehabilitation practices.