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First published online 09 November 2020.
Why this study was done
Young people on the autism spectrum often face challenges when moving from school into adulthood (such as work or further education). Families, especially mothers, play a key role in supporting them during this transition, but their experiences are not well understood. This study aimed to explore how mothers support their children and how inclusive practices are experienced in Australia.
What the study did
Researchers spoke with mothers of young adults on the autism spectrum and analysed their experiences using a qualitative approach (looking for common themes in their stories).
What the study found
The study found that:
Inclusive practices are often shaped by organisational pressures (like meeting performance targets)
Schools, universities, and workplaces can view autism from a deficit perspective, seeing individuals as low achievers
Despite policies supporting inclusion, young people on the autism spectrum still experience inequality and exclusion
Mothers play a strong advocacy role, pushing for better support and inclusion
What this means
This research shows that inclusion is not always achieved in practice, even when policies exist. It highlights the importance of:
Better, more individualised support systems
Challenging negative assumptions about autism
Recognising and supporting the role of families (especially mothers) in advocating for young people
Overall, stronger and more genuine inclusive practices are needed to support autistic young people during their transition to adulthood.
This study was conducted by: Dr. Yosheen Pillay, Associate Professor Charlotte Bronslow and Professor Sonja March.
For other accessible formats, please see the column to the right.
Disclaimer: The QDRN has utilised generative AI to refine the wording of this plain language summary. All content has been checked for accuracy, appropriate tone, and clarity and approved by the author.
First published online 09 November 2020.
Why this study was done
Young people on the autism spectrum often face challenges when moving from school into adulthood (such as work or further education). Families, especially mothers, play a key role in supporting them during this transition, but their experiences are not well understood. This study aimed to explore how mothers support their children and how inclusive practices are experienced in Australia.
What the study did
Researchers spoke with mothers of young adults on the autism spectrum and analysed their experiences using a qualitative approach (looking for common themes in their stories).
What the study found
The study found that:
Inclusive practices are often shaped by organisational pressures (like meeting performance targets)
Schools, universities, and workplaces can view autism from a deficit perspective, seeing individuals as low achievers
Despite policies supporting inclusion, young people on the autism spectrum still experience inequality and exclusion
Mothers play a strong advocacy role, pushing for better support and inclusion
What this means
This research shows that inclusion is not always achieved in practice, even when policies exist. It highlights the importance of:
Better, more individualised support systems
Challenging negative assumptions about autism
Recognising and supporting the role of families (especially mothers) in advocating for young people
Overall, stronger and more genuine inclusive practices are needed to support autistic young people during their transition to adulthood.
This study was conducted by: Dr. Yosheen Pillay, Associate Professor Charlotte Bronslow and Professor Sonja March.
For other accessible formats, please see the column to the right.
Disclaimer: The QDRN has utilised generative AI to refine the wording of this plain language summary. All content has been checked for accuracy, appropriate tone, and clarity and approved by the author.
