Helping each other, helping ourselves: A case of employment for an adult with autism in Nanjing, China

This article presents the results of research on one case of employment for an individual with autism in a Chinese city. The research investigated the context of this employment, including family and local leaders' and coworkers' responses to it. Interviews and participant observation were conducted and almost daily work notes collected. Two major themes resulted. First, community efforts led to employment for an individual with autism providing a situation that was seen by all as mutually beneficial, to both the individual and her family as well as to the Community and local government, the Street Office. Second, despite this opportunity provided by the government, the mother's role continued to be essential and primary, including a main goal of making sure her daughter with autism could adapt herself to the coworkers' expectations and job requirements.