Parent Expectations Mediate Outcomes for Young Adults with Autism Spectrum Disorder

A small minority of youth diagnosed with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) are able to attain success in areas of independence and functioning as young adults. Associations between baseline family demographics, child functioning, and parent expectations, and five-year follow-up measures of child employment, independent living, and social participation were examined. Findings suggest parents' expectations for their child's outcomes have an important impact on later success for youth with ASD.