Continuing & Professional Studies, Palo Alto University

This on-demand webinar on Interviewing Persons with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) is presented by Jerrod Brown, PhD

Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is a complex neurodevelopmental disorder that is characterized by communication and social skills deficits, cognitive rigidity, and a wide range of co-occurring emotional, behavioral, and physical health symptoms. These deficits can contribute to issues with impulsivity, sensory overload, decision-making, long-term planning, linking cause-and-effect, and understanding consequences. Struggles with the theory of mind, adaptive function, implicit understanding, and executive function are commonplace among those with autism. These struggles are particularly salient for interviews conducted in three settings: (1) healthcare, where the ability to provide personal information can impede accurate diagnosis and appropriate treatment; (2) employment, where unsuccessful job interviews exacerbate already high levels of underemployment among those with autism, and (3) criminal justice, where inaccurate information can lead to miscarriages of justice like wrongful convictions. This training is intended for professionals who conduct interviews in these various settings. Empirically based research findings and case studies will be utilized throughout this training to enhance learning outcomes.