Letter to the editor: Employment of autistic individuals in the age of AI integration: Challenges and opportunities.
Journal:
Autism : the international journal of research and practice
Published Date:
Dec 10, 2025
Abstract
As artificial intelligence (AI) reshapes the modern workplace, the implications for neurodivergent populations, particularly autistic adults, warrant attention. Autistic people remain underrepresented in the workforce, facing persistent barriers to sustained employment. In this letter, we consider whether AI may compound these barriers or offer opportunities for autistic people: With thoughtful design and implementation, could AI foster more inclusive and accessible workplaces? We call for critical reflection on AI's potential impact on autistic employment. We argue that facilitating inclusion of autistic individuals in the workforce in the age of AI will require care, collaboration, and a commitment to neurodiversity.Lay AbstractAs artificial intelligence (AI) becomes more common in workplaces, it could affect autistic people in important ways. Today, many autistic adults still face difficulties finding and keeping jobs. In this letter, we ask whether AI will make things harder for autistic people or whether it might help. Could AI be designed in a way that supports autistic workers and creates more inclusive workplaces? We believe that the answer depends on how AI is used. We call for thoughtful planning and teamwork between employers, autistic people, and designers to make sure AI is used in ways that support neurodiversity and employment inclusion.
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