WORKING IN REAL JOBS FOR REAL PAY
There is a strong consensus that whenever possible, the most meaningful weekday activities for adults with autism is working in real jobs for real pay. This means working in the same type of job that people without disabilities work in and receiving the same pay for it. Holding a job allows an adult with autism to earn an income and access the benefits of spending one’s own money.
There are also important benefits of adults with autism working real jobs beyond the income they earn. Working in a job alongside workers who do not have disabilities in typical work environments allows adults with autism to be fully integrated within a major portion of society, that of the country’s workforce. Working is also a normal adult activity—most adults work during their weekdays. Additionally, there is a certain dignity obtained by working to support oneself either fully or partially, compared to being dependent on others for financial support, and that dignity extends to adults with autism when they work.