ASD Young Adult Group

Current research on young adults with autistic spectrum disorder (ASD), including high-functioning autism and Asperger’s Syndrome, indicates that 96% are unable to live independently.

Why are ASD young adults with above-average intelligence, who have completed secondary education, still living with their parents?

Although research confirms vocational and educational opportunities are important in developing the capacity to live independently, the ability to find a long-term romantic partner plays an even larger role.

By the act of partnering the young adult expands his support system through relationships with the partner’s friends, extended family, and through the process of raising children within a community.  The capacity to partner/marry provides the opportunity to separate from one’s parents and create an extended family and community that will provide lifelong social support.

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A nationwide review of programs for young adults with ASD revealed a plethora of programs focusing on social skills, vocational training and independent living skills but minimal support for increasing the relationship skills needed to sustain romantic relationships.

If young adults with ASD are able to improve their capacity for long-term romantic partnerships, they will be motivated to leave the security of their parents’ home.  Only then will they be able to establish a new support system that will increase the success rate of living and working independently.

Groupworks West’s ASD Relationship Skills Group will support young adults, ages 23 – 33.  The program will focus on creating the psychological, biological and social attributes needed to create and sustain long-term romantic relationships.  Groups will meet two hours per week for two 24-week periods.  Core teaching points include:

-       Self-Awareness Training

-       Partner Selection Training

-       Empathy Training

-       Dynamic Thinking and Problem-Solving

-       Dynamic Communication

-       Theory of Mind (teaching ASD adults that others have their own unique perceptions)

-       Appearance and Grooming

-       Sexual Development and Sexual Behavior

-       Using the Internet as a Tool for Meeting Appropriate Partners