
Benefits of Life Skill Based Education for Neurodiverse Adults: An Integrative Review and Analysis
Author(s) -
Niruruthi Ravichandren,
Autumn Niruruthi O'Connor
Publication year - 2021
Publication title -
world journal of educational research (los angeles. online)/world journal of educational research
Language(s) - English
Resource type - Journals
eISSN - 2375-9771
pISSN - 2333-5998
DOI - 10.22158/wjer.v8n4p21
Subject(s) - generalizability theory , autism spectrum disorder , inclusion (mineral) , psychology , population , quality of life (healthcare) , inclusion and exclusion criteria , clinical psychology , autism , developmental psychology , medicine , alternative medicine , environmental health , social psychology , psychotherapist , pathology
An integrative review and analysis was conducted to assess the benefits of teaching Life Skill-Based Education (LSBE) to Neuro Divergent Ddults (ND) (i.e., adults with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD), Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) and/or specific learning difficulties (SLD)). A systematic search of Google, Google Scholar, EBSCO host, and Cochrane Library databases were utilized with date ranging from 2000-2020. A total of 659 hits were obtained before duplicates were removed and inclusion/exclusion criteria, as well as conceptual perspective applied. In summation, 16 articles were thoroughly analysed to evaluate the efficacy of LSBE programs on improving the Quality of Life (QoL) of ND adults. Specifically, ones that cater to the Executive Functioning (EF) challenges often seen in this population, whilst using inclusive approaches. The findings did reveal high potential of LSBE programs to benefit ND adults, where general services currently lack. However, issues such a small sample size and lack of sample diversity limit generalizability of program benefits. Recommendations are to tackle global problems around inclusion and education, for ND adults, at its roots. Greater awareness of LSBE program should be emphasized worldwide, as benefits will likely ensue for all kinds of individuals/neurotypes. Overall, implications target change on a micro, meso and macro level.