How do I support an employee with asperger's?

Question

I supervise a young man who displays all the signs of aspergers, how do I support and respond to him?

Answer 1

Many people with Aspergers can do quiet well. It is a very mild form of Autism as a result they often have communication problems.

How you support will depend largely on what is the person doing, do they have the qualifications, much like any other employee. Many can be very well educated and have top of the line careers. Often one finds that those jobs tend to be where the individual can work more independently such as science and math.

I did a quick search for supporting asperger employees, I would suggest you have a look at that on google. The top one that came up is a paper written on that topic, looks good and is listed below. Thank you for taking your time and learning about the best ways to support an employee with special needs. If you work with this individual, I hope that you find an excellent person and employee.

Answer 2

Don't expect him to take nonverbal social cues. You might need to be more direct to help him operate socially with others -this is good as long as the directness is coming from a spirit of helpfulness. He may also not get others' senses of humour or may take things more literally so do perception checks. Don't be scared to use humour and involve him in it- this takes time but it can have great results. Respond directly. Support him by discussing topics he is interested in (there will be some that he knows unbelievable amounts of data about) BUT also cue him when he is talking for too long or not listening to others. Be direct, kind, and encourage others to do the same. When you have something you want him to change or improve, give a very specific list of how to do it and be consistent with prompting him to follow the list. He may also need more time with transitions than others- like getting started on a new task or wrapping up a task. Enjoy his special quirks and let him figure out his own niche. Also expect his best effort -he can give it.

Answer 3

My 8 year old son as Aspergers and I worry daily about what his life will be like when he is older. I know he will probably have difficulty working because of the "odd" things he does and says so it gives me hope to know that there are people out there who would be willing to help him and give him a chance and not just judge him and make fun of him. Please be as supportive as possible to this young man and try to understand that he has no control over most of his behaviors. Thank you for taking the time to care.

Answer 4

hey im an Aspie can i come and work for you too???? every job ive ever had ive either been fired or not taken past the trial period because im not fast enough worker an not fitting in with the team. i find it frustrating so much that nobody where i live seems to care.
theres supposed to be equal opportunities stuff in workplaces but maybe it only works for black white short tall male female lesbian gay straight. they should make one so they will accept aspies and auties in teh workplace too.

Answer 5

Ask him what he needs and be there for him.