From the Guidelines
The best way to teach an autistic adult who requires frequent confirmation in the workplace is to implement clear, structured communication with regular feedback, incorporating a mentorship system and visual checklists to reduce anxiety and increase confidence. This approach is supported by the principles outlined in the study by 1, which emphasizes the importance of structured educational approaches with explicit teaching, individualized intervention, and family involvement to ensure generalization of skills. Although this study focuses on children with autism spectrum disorder, the principles of structured education and explicit teaching can be applied to autistic adults in the workplace.
To implement this approach, start by establishing a consistent routine with explicit instructions, preferably in multiple formats (verbal and written). Break down complex tasks into smaller, manageable steps and create visual checklists that allow the individual to track their progress. Schedule regular check-in meetings at predictable intervals rather than waiting for them to seek confirmation. Use direct, concrete language and avoid idioms or abstract concepts that might cause confusion. Provide positive reinforcement when tasks are completed correctly, which builds confidence and reduces the need for constant reassurance.
The study by 1 highlights the importance of active involvement of families and/or caregivers in intervention, which can be adapted to the workplace by designating a colleague as a mentor for the autistic adult. This mentor can provide support, answer questions, and help the individual generalize skills across different environments. By incorporating these strategies, the need for frequent confirmation can be addressed while promoting a structured and supportive work environment.
Key elements of this approach include:
- Clear, structured communication with regular feedback
- Visual checklists and predictable routines to reduce anxiety
- Mentorship system for support and guidance
- Positive reinforcement to build confidence and reduce the need for constant reassurance
- Adaptation of principles from autism education to the workplace setting, as supported by 1 and 1.
From the Research
Strategies for Teaching Autistic Adults in the Workplace
To effectively teach an autistic adult who requires frequent confirmation in the workplace, several strategies can be employed:
- Providing a supportive work environment with minimal distractions and predictable job duties 2
- Offering job coaching using different strategies to support employment and relationships 2
- Utilizing technology to improve performance and work experience, while considering environmental factors 2
- Implementing autism awareness training for employers and coworkers to promote a positive work environment 3
- Creating low-stimulus work spaces, providing clear instructions, and offering flexible working hours to accommodate individual needs 3
Accommodations and Adjustments
Reasonable adjustments can be made to support autistic employees, including:
- Defining reasonable adjustments as having a positive impact on wellbeing and work outputs without being detrimental to non-autistic employees or the organization 3
- Identifying low-cost and easily implemented adjustments, such as autism awareness training and flexible working hours 3
- Recognizing the importance of employer and coworker support in creating a positive work environment 2, 3
Medication and Treatment
While the provided studies do not directly address the best way to teach an autistic adult, they do discuss the use of selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) for treating conditions comorbid with autism spectrum disorder:
- There is limited evidence of the effectiveness of SSRIs in adults with autism spectrum disorder, with some studies showing positive outcomes for anxiety and obsessive-compulsive behavior 4, 5, 6
- However, there is also emerging evidence of harm associated with SSRI use in children with autism spectrum disorder 4, 5