Faculty, Staff and Student Publications
Language
English
Publication Date
12-1-2024
Journal
Journal of Developmental and Physical Disabilities
DOI
10.1007/s10882-024-09974-4
PMID
41613281
PMCID
PMC12851553
PubMedCentral® Posted Date
1-29-2026
PubMedCentral® Full Text Version
Author MSS
Abstract
Advancing interventions and supports for individuals with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) requires understanding that ASD is a lifelong developmental difference. However, little is known about the unique experiences of autistic young adults, parents, and community providers in the Latino community. The purpose of this study was to improve access to inclusive community based setting by identifying and learning about barriers and needs experienced by young adults, parents, and community providers of autistic individuals across the lifespan, but particularly during the transition to adulthood. Ten community providers, eighteen parents of autistic children, and five young adult self-advocates participated in focus groups. Parents discussed difficulties in accessing services throughout their child's life that made the transition to adulthood difficult. Themes highlighted important cultural values that can influence the transition to adulthood for Latinos and the difficulty in accessing bilingual service providers and services. Parents displayed significant advocacy skills and resourcefulness. We present recommendations shared by young adults, parents, and providers on ways to improve access to services and develop interventions for autistic young adults and parents. The present study has important implications regarding advancing interventions and supports for autistic young adults and their parents in the Latino community by developing culturally adapted services.
Keywords
Transition to adulthood, Latinos, Young adulthood, Autism, Parents, Community providers
Published Open-Access
yes
Recommended Citation
Pagán, Antonio F; Vanderburg, Juliana L; Loveland, Katherine A; et al., "Connecting, Serving, and Adapting: Perspectives on the Transition to Adulthood from Latino Young Adults with ASD, Parents, and Providers" (2024). Faculty, Staff and Student Publications. 4333.
https://digitalcommons.library.tmc.edu/uthmed_docs/4333