Feasibility and Safety of a Virtual-Reality Based Job Interview Training Tool in Teenagers With High-Functioning Autism

Feasibility and Safety of a Virtual-Reality Based Job Interview Training Tool in Teenagers With High-Functioning Autism

The current project involves the application of a VR job training software. We propose to use an interactive VR job interview practice system, Virtual Reality Job Interview Training (VR-JIT), in youths with ASD at the highschool level. This system was developed to bolster job interview practice skills and to help reduce anxiety in adults with ASD. However, it has never before been used in individuals under the age of 18. Our hope is that if this program is utilized in individuals while they are still in highschool, we can target those persons before the window for which risk of unemployment appears to be highest for ASD youths, immediately after high school graduation.

Inclusion Criteria:

• Be between the ages of 13 and 18
• Have a diagnosis of ASD or a typically developing child
• Be able to speak and read English fluently

Exclusion Criteria:

• I had a stroke, TBI, or neurologic injury or disease in the past
• I have a history of significant psychiatric illness (like bipolar, schizophrenia, or psychosis)
• I have uncontrolled seizures or other unstable medical complications