There is a general lack of information about the economic impact of autistic spectrum disorder (ASD), particularly regarding adults and those with high-functioning ASD. In this study, the societal economic consequences of ASD were investigated using a sample of young high-functioning adults in need of employment support. A methodology for the…

Presents the findings of a national survey of Community Rehabilitation Providers in 20 states (754 responses from 1,579 surveyed) reviewing provider characteristics, placement practices, current and future trends in service provision, and factors influencing change among providers. Reviews factors influencing change and offers suggestions for the…

Investigated quality of life for 110 individuals with severe mental illness participating in two supported employment programs in Maryland. Significant differences were noted for individuals in supported employment compared to those not working, as well as several other significant gains after job placement. (Author/NB)

Through current hiring practices, many school districts may be missing an untapped pool of potential employees--individuals with disabilities. In this article, the authors describe the Hiring Practice Initiative (HPI) and its implementation in 17 Florida school districts. The Hiring Practice Initiative Project goals are to: (a) increase the…

Numerous studies show that employment, community participation, and postsecondary training rates of students with severe disabilities after leaving high school are the lowest of all disability categories and compare unfavorably to those of their peers without disabilities. In addition, outcomes generally do not improve as these students age. Certo…

Involvement of students and adult employees into the decisions that affect their education and employment can improve their transition into supported employment. One means for increasing involvement into these decisions is to gain their input into performance evaluations and support needs. The "Job Observation and Behavior Scale: Opportunity for…

This issue of the quarterly publication focuses on Supporting Success in School and Beyond for Students with Autism Spectrum Disorders. Editorial introduction notes that Autism Spectrum Disorders (ASD) are reported as the sixth most commonly classified disability among young people receiving special education services in American schools, and it…

This annotated bibliography contains two sections. The first section includes 49 nonevaluative abstracts on issues in supported employment for the disabled. The second section, containing 18 abstracts, focuses on publications of special interest to parents of young adults with disabilities. Within each section citations are arranged alphabetically…

Instruments based on the Theory of Work Adjustment (TWA) were completed by 45 supported employees with mental retardation and 45 nondisabled employees. More similarities than differences were found in importance and satisfaction of 17 vocational needs. Use of the TWA with workers in supported employment was validated. (SK)

This study determined the characteristics of employers who are open to hiring and supporting people with disabilities. The purpose was to help rehabilitation professionals better target their placement and educational activities. The results indicated that 13 specific characteristics, organized into three major categories, are found among…

Analyzed daily functions of supported employment program managers (n=30) in Virginia as first step in determining competencies to be addressed in supported employment manager training programs. Found program managers engaged in planning, organizing, directing, coordinating, and controlling, and divided their time between administrative and direct…

Examined fringe benefits available to individuals in supported employment. Found that 64 percent of supported employees received fringe benefits. Found significant differences in availability of particular benefits across employment models. Medical-health insurance coverage was available more frequently to persons in individual placement models.…

Discusses how restructuring of New Zealand public agencies benefits disability services; managed care environment; Workbridge disability employment service; the Association for Supported Employment in New Zealand; and the Accident Rehabilitation and Compensation Insurance Corporation. (SK)

Supported employment is growing in Spain, assisted by models from other countries and national legislation. The Spanish Association of Supported Employment is providing a framework for program development. The field must deal with the lack of systematic evaluation and with funding problems. (SK)

The medical model has promoted a train-place model for psychiatric rehabilitation. This model carefully trains people with psychiatric disabilities on a range of skills so they can handle real-world demands before placing them in work and independent living situations. More consistent with a social work perspective are place-train programs, which…