There is limited research that addresses the inclusion of individuals with autism in the workforce. Autism employment in information technology (IT) is a new phenomenon and there is no established theory to draw from to investigate this phenomenon. In this paper, we review the existing literature on autism employment and present a theoretical framework to study information technology workplace readiness to equitably include individuals with autism. Our proposed framework extends Annabi and Lebovitz’s organizational interventions mitigating individual barriers theoretical framework to include Ajzen’s Theory of Planned Behavior constructs. The framework will contribute to advancing the knowledge and understanding of the needs of individuals with autism, the knowledge and attitudes of neurotypical information technology employees, and organization and employment characteristics. Ultimately, this work will lead to discoveries that broaden participation of individuals with autism in the information technology industry and beyond.

BACKGROUND: Long delays between parents' initial concerns about their children's development and a subsequent autism spectrum disorder (ASD) diagnosis are common. Although discussions between parents and providers about early ASD concerns can be difficult, they are critical for initiating early, specialized services. The principles of shared decision-making can facilitate these discussions. This qualitative study was designed to gain insights from parents of young children with ASD about their experiences communicating with primary care providers with the goal of identifying strategies for improving conversations and decisionmaking regarding the early detection of ASD.METHODS: Three 2-hour focus groups were conducted with 23 parents of children with ASD ,8 years old. Qualitative analysis employed an iterative and systematic approach to identify key themes related to parents' experiences.RESULTS: Eight themes related to communication about early ASD concerns emerged: characteristics of the child that caused parental concerns, the response of others when the parent brought up concerns, how concerns were brought up to the parent by others, parental responses when others mentioned concerns, information seeking, barriers to and facilitators of acting on concerns, and recommendations to providers. Parent responses suggest the need for increased use of shared decision-making strategies and areas for process improvements.CONCLUSIONS: Primary care providers can play a key role in helping parents with ASD concerns make decisions about how to move forward and pursue appropriate referrals. Strategies include responding promptly to parental concerns, helping them weigh options, and monitoring the family's progress as they navigate the service delivery system.WHAT'S KNOWN ON THIS SUBJECT: Challenges in parent-provider communication about early autism spectrum disorder (ASD) concerns can prevent young children from accessing appropriately specialized treatment at the age when it may be most effective. The process of shared decision-making can lead to more productive discussions and consensus building.WHAT THIS STUDY ADDS: This qualitative study provides insights from parents of young children regarding barriers to and facilitators of acting on their early concerns about ASD. Specific recommendations for shared decision-making strategies that may increase early access to ASD-specialized services are provided.

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