Restricted, Repetitive Behaviours and Interests in the Workplace: Barriers, Advantages, and an Individual Difference Approach to Autism Employment

Abstract

Individuals with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) often experience significant difficulties obtaining and maintaining employment. This is reflected in high rates of unemployment and underemployment worldwide. Social communication challenges can lead to difficulties through recruitment and employment processes. In addition, restricted and repetitive behaviours and interests (RRBI) can present significant barriers to the employment of people with autism. However, with sufficient support, individuals with autism can not only succeed in the workplace but may even outperform their colleagues in certain domains. This may be due to skills, or ‘talents’, related to RRBI; for example, attention to deta..