Financial Literacy Skills Instruction Among Autistic Individuals: A Systematic Review

Area of Science:

• Behavioral Sciences
• Special Education
• Neurodevelopmental Disorders

Background:

• Financial literacy is essential for independent living in contemporary society.
• Limited research exists on financial literacy skills specifically within the autistic population.
• Existing literature primarily focuses on basic money management rather than broader financial concepts.

Purpose of the Study:

• To systematically review existing research on financial literacy skill instruction for autistic individuals.
• To identify the extent of research examining financial literacy education for autistic people.
• To establish a baseline understanding of current research practices in this area.

Main Methods:

• A systematic review methodology was employed to identify relevant studies.
• An initial search yielded approximately 9500 articles.
• Articles underwent rigorous abstract and full-text screening for relevance to the research question.

Main Results:

• Two studies were identified that directly addressed financial literacy skills.
• Ten additional studies focused on more fundamental money skills, such as making change.
• The two studies on financial literacy integrated these skills within broader intervention objectives, not as a sole focus.

Conclusions:

• There is a significant gap in research concerning financial literacy skill instruction for autistic individuals.
• Existing research on money skills and related life skills provides a foundation for future work.
• Further research is recommended, emphasizing interventions designed collaboratively with and for autistic individuals, considering their unique needs and strengths.