Managing the behavior of adults with autism in the job setting.

Burgio et al. (1986) worked with three adults with severe autism in real job sites. Staff taught job tasks and used praise, prompts, and brief breaks when problem behavior occurred.

The study ran in the 1980s, before supported employment was common. It is a small case series, so each adult served as his own control.

Aggression and refusal dropped for two workers once on-the-job training started. The third worker kept calm and packed more items per hour.

All three stayed on the payroll, showing that behavioral training can make paid work possible even for adults with very limited language.

McHugh et al. (2023) later showed adults can also reduce their own problem behavior by tracking and rewarding themselves. D et al. used coach-delivered training; McHugh used self-management—both work, giving you two tools.

Harvery et al. (2021) surveyed autistic employees and found part-time jobs and workplace supports predict better fit. The 1986 study is the seed: it first proved that supports delivered right on the job can cut aggression and raise output.

Griffith et al. (2012) tried a one-day workshop for school staff and saw mixed results. Their brief lecture format contrasts with D et al.’s hands-on coaching, explaining why the workshop helped knowledge but not always behavior.

If you support adults with autism, start on-the-job training early. Shadow the worker, give immediate praise for correct steps, and use short breaks—not removal from the site—to handle flare-ups. The 1986 data say these simple tactics can turn severe behavior into steady employment.