Young Adults on the Autism Spectrum: Perceived Effects of Participation in a University-Based Challenge Course Program in the Community

Abstract

Researchers investigated perceived life effectiveness of young adults with autism who were partnered with student peers in an outdoor Challenge Course program on a university campus. Twenty-three adults ages 17–34 completed the Life Effectiveness Questionnaire before and after participating in the program. Paired samples t-tests of pre-scores and post-scores indicated significant increases in self-perceptions of effectiveness in task leadership and social competence factors. Perceptions of improved communication and high levels of satisfaction were reported by participants and parents. Occupational therapy intervention with community-dwelling young adults with autism using university-based peer partnerships is effective in promoting participation and life effectiveness.

KEYWORDS:

• autism
• peer partnership program
• young adults