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14-07-2021 | Original Paper

A Self-Determination Theory Approach to Work Motivation of Autistic Adults: A Qualitative Exploratory Study

Auteurs: Yael Goldfarb, Ofer Golan, Eynat Gal

Gepubliceerd in: Journal of Autism and Developmental Disorders | Uitgave 4/2023

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Abstract

The study explores work motivation of autistic adults through the lens of Self-Determination Theory (SDT). Twelve autistic employees (ages 28–47; 3 females) participated in semi-structured qualitative interviews about their work experience. Analysis combined inductive and deductive approaches, identifying motivational themes emerging from the interviews, and analyzing them according to SDT concepts. Two major themes emerged: (1) work motivation factors positioned on the self-determination continuum: income and self-reliance; a daily routine; social/familial internalized norms; meaning and contribution; and job interest; and (2) satisfaction of psychological needs at work, postulated by SDT: competence, social-relatedness, and autonomy and structure. Findings are discussed in relation to current literature, and practical applications are suggested for meeting the motivational needs of autistic employees and promoting employment stability.
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Metagegevens
Titel
A Self-Determination Theory Approach to Work Motivation of Autistic Adults: A Qualitative Exploratory Study
Auteurs
Yael Goldfarb
Ofer Golan
Eynat Gal
Publicatiedatum
14-07-2021
Uitgeverij
Springer US
Gepubliceerd in
Journal of Autism and Developmental Disorders / Uitgave 4/2023
Print ISSN: 0162-3257
Elektronisch ISSN: 1573-3432
DOI
https://doi.org/10.1007/s10803-021-05185-4