Examining Differences in Community Participation in Young Adults With Autism Spectrum Disorder

Abstract

Adults with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) demonstrate low levels of community participation, though no studies have examined the perceived value and satisfaction when assessing community participation among young adults with ASD. Using the Temple University Community Participation measure, young adults with and without ASD were compared on the frequency, perceived importance, and satisfaction of community participation. Adults with ASD participated less frequently in participation areas and identified fewer important participation areas. Importantly, no differences were reported in satisfaction with participation between the two groups despite adults with ASD participating less frequently in the community. Results suggest a need for further exploration of predictors of poor community participation in adults with ASD, as well as effective interventions targeting community participation in this population.