Working With People With Autistic Spectrum Conditions: A Single Case Study

Abstract

The aim of this paper is to present the work undertaken to support a young person with autistic spectrum conditions (ASC) over a period of 6 years and to discuss the results of a holistic intervention strategy which addressed a range of difficulties experienced both in school and in the community. A brief overview of common approaches in the education and care support for individuals with ASC is presented. The discussion highlights and suggests that a holistic approach might be more suitable and effective in achieving a range of positive outcomes in an educational and social context. A mixed method single-subject design was adopted. Several data measurements at three age points were collated to demonstrate progress in the following three areas: (1) Positive Behavior Management, (2) Access to Curriculum Lessons and Community Based Activities (3) Level of Staff Support. Adopting a holistic, person-centered and highly individualized approach where opportunities for choice and control are nurtured and fostered suggests that in the long-term more durable and meaningful outcomes are achieved. The results of this single-subject case study have implications for future design, delivery and implementation of educational and care programs.