CHFA | Psychology Department Showcase: Projects In-Progress
Autism Supports on College Campuses
Academic Level at Time of Presentation
Freshmen
Major
Psychology and Communication Disorders
List all Project Mentors & Advisor(s)
Dr. Michael Bordieri
Presentation Format
Oral Presentation
Abstract/Description
Abstract
Although more autistic individuals are attending college than in previous years (Ashbaugh et al., 2017), many feel overwhelmingly unsupported due to a lack of on-campus services and programs geared toward their specific needs (Siew et al., 2017). Because autistic individuals graduate at a lower rate than their neurotypical peers (Siew et al., 2017), it is important that colleges provide services specific to their challenges. Additionally, social supports may increase students’ sense of belonging which can decrease symptoms of other mental health conditions such as depression and anxiety (Siew et al., 2017). This review intends to identify research regarding support services for autistic students on college campuses and find limitations in the existing literature and programs themselves. Preliminary results demonstrate a need for further research on the effectiveness and practicality of these programs. These findings will inform future research, including qualitative interviews with autistic students on Murray State University’s campus to further explore the scope of services needed.
Spring Scholars Week 2023 Event
Psychology: Projects In-Progress
Autism Supports on College Campuses
Abstract
Although more autistic individuals are attending college than in previous years (Ashbaugh et al., 2017), many feel overwhelmingly unsupported due to a lack of on-campus services and programs geared toward their specific needs (Siew et al., 2017). Because autistic individuals graduate at a lower rate than their neurotypical peers (Siew et al., 2017), it is important that colleges provide services specific to their challenges. Additionally, social supports may increase students’ sense of belonging which can decrease symptoms of other mental health conditions such as depression and anxiety (Siew et al., 2017). This review intends to identify research regarding support services for autistic students on college campuses and find limitations in the existing literature and programs themselves. Preliminary results demonstrate a need for further research on the effectiveness and practicality of these programs. These findings will inform future research, including qualitative interviews with autistic students on Murray State University’s campus to further explore the scope of services needed.