The lived experiences of individuals with high-functioning autism during the job interview process: A phenomenological study

Abstract

Individuals with high-functioning autism (HFA) have demonstrated they have many significant benefits that they can contribute to an employer. However, given their social and behavioral differences, many individuals find themselves unemployed or underemployed. Presented here is a phenomenological study consisting of 12 self-identified HFA adults, which analyzes the lived experiences of these individuals specifically during a job interview. Four major themes emerged from this study: Interview Structure, Perceived Competency, Social Camouflaging, and Forced Normality. The findings of this study are clear that the standard interview processes used cause undue stress and anxiety for neurodivergent populations.