Using the COM-B Model and Theoretical Domains Framework to Understand Workplace Disclosure Experiences, Influencers, and Needs Among Autistic Young Adults.
Vanessa Tomas, Shauna Kingsnorth, Bonnie Kirsh and 2 others
PMID 36171492WHAT IT FOUND
Autistic young adults mostly described workplace environment and fear of stigma as driving disclosure decisions.
Many needed accommodations but stayed silent due to discrimination concerns. Most preferred selective disclosure to managers after hiring, often lacking knowledge on how to navigate the process.
Key findings
01The workplace environment was the most discussed influence on disclosure, while optimism about positive outcomes was the least discussed.
02Participants feared discrimination, stigma, and not getting hired, which frequently outweighed their need for workplace accommodations.
03Most participants intended to disclose selectively to their manager after being hired, but many lacked knowledge on how to navigate disclosure logistics.
STILL TO COME
How it was doneWhat they foundWhat it means for OTs
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What it does not show
The study relied on self-reported autism diagnoses without medical records, so autism characteristics and severity were unknown. Participants were restricted to English speakers with internet access in Canada, limiting diversity. The sample size was small (23 participants) and all were aged 18 or older, so findings may not apply to younger adolescents or non-verbal individuals. Provincial differences in Canadian disability legislation were not accounted for, which may influence disclosure decisions.
Declared interests
The authors declared no conflicts of interest. The study was funded by a CIHR-SSHRC Partnership Grant and the Kimel Family Opportunities Fund.
The easy way to misread this
Do not interpret the participants' stated intentions to disclose as evidence that disclosure leads to successful accommodation outcomes. The study reports perceptions and plans, not the actual results of those disclosures, and many participants chose not to disclose despite needing support.