Individuals with autism spectrum disorder are more likely to experience homelessness and unemployment. While over 40% of the homeless population has a disability, autism specifically can lead to difficulties with social cues that make interviewing and maintaining a job challenging. Additionally, many with autism have normal IQs and do not qualify for programs assisting those with disabilities, leaving few options for support. Studies show unemployment rates are much higher for those with autism compared to those without disabilities.

1. Autism Spectrum Disorder
and Homelessness

2. 17.7% of Americans have been
diagnosed with a disability; however…

3. Over 40% of America’s homeless
population are people with disabilities.

4. A 2008 study showed that 42.8%
of adults using homeless shelters
had a disability…

5. Compared to 37.1% in 2007.

6. Another study revealed that only 15% of
people with autism spectrum disorder
have full-time jobs…

7. Compared to 57% of people
without a disability.

8. Why are individuals with autism
spectrum disorder more likely to
be unemployed?
Laurel Joss, writer at Autism Daily
Newscast, has a twofold theory.

9. Since autism spectrum disorder can lead
to difficulties reading social cues, people
with autism may have a harder time
interviewing and maintaining a job.

10. Also, since many people with autism
spectrum disorder test in the normal IQ
range they will be less likely to qualify
for social programs benefiting people
with disabilities.

11. Sources
http://autismworkbarrier.org.uk/articles/autism-homelessness-
and-unemployment
http://www.autismdailynewscast.com/are-people-with-autism-
at-a-higher-risk-for-homelessness/6784/laurel-joss/