Benefits of Life Skill Based Education for Neurodiverse Adults: An Integrative Review and Analysis

Abstract

An integrative review and analysis was conducted to assess the benefits of teaching Life Skill-Based Education (LSBE) to Neuro Divergent Adults (ND) (i.e., adults with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD), Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) and/or specific learning difficulties (SLD)). A systematic search of Google, Google Scholar, EBSCO host, and Cochrane Library databases were utilized with date ranging from 2000-2020. A total of 659 hits were obtained before duplicates were removed and inclusion/exclusion criteria, as well as conceptual perspective applied. In summation, 16 articles were thoroughly analysed to evaluate the efficacy of LSBE programs on improving the Quality of Life (QoL) of ND adults. Specifically, ones that cater to the Executive Functioning (EF) challenges often seen in this population, whilst using inclusive approaches. The findings did reveal high potential of LSBE programs to benefit ND adults, where general services currently lack. However, issues such a small sample size and lack of sample diversity limit generalizability of program benefits. Recommendations are to tackle global problems around inclusion and education, for ND adults, at its roots. Greater awareness of LSBE program should be emphasized worldwide, as benefits will likely ensue for all kinds of individuals/neurotypes. Overall, implications target change on a micro, meso and macro level.