Transitioning from Adolescence to Adulthood with Autism Spectrum Disorder: An Overview of Planning and Legal Issues

The transition to adulthood is complex. It is defined by many objective and subjective milestones. Transition from adolescence to young adulthood is challenging for both neurotypical individuals and individuals with autism spectrum disorders. However, for autistic individuals, this transition is even more complicated and poses a range of legal and ethical considerations. This article discusses how existing legal and social constructs may exacerbate rather than diminish barriers and access for autistic adults and identifies current and potential legal and policy solutions to reducing current systemic barriers. This article ultimately supports a supported decision-making model for autistic adolescents transitioning into adulthood.