Can You Join the Military if You Have Autism?
The United States military has a long history of accepting individuals with diverse backgrounds and abilities. In recent years, the military has made significant strides in increasing accessibility and inclusivity, including for individuals with autism spectrum disorder (ASD). So, can you join the military if you have autism? The answer is yes, but with some considerations.
Eligibility
To be eligible to join the military, you must meet the minimum qualifications set by each branch. These qualifications include being a U.S. citizen, being at least 17 years old (with parental consent), and having a high school diploma or equivalent. Additionally, you must pass a physical fitness test and a mental aptitude test.
For individuals with autism, the process is similar, but there are some additional considerations. The military has specific requirements for individuals with autism, which are outlined in the Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) Recruitment and Retention Guidance document. This document provides guidance to recruiters and commanders on how to assess and support individuals with ASD.
Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) Recruitment and Retention Guidance
The ASD Recruitment and Retention Guidance outlines the following requirements for individuals with ASD:
- Diagnostic evaluation: A diagnosis of ASD must be made by a licensed professional, such as a psychologist or psychiatrist.
- Severity of symptoms: The individual must not have severe symptoms that would interfere with their ability to perform military duties.
- Functional limitations: The individual must not have significant functional limitations that would require accommodations that are not available in the military.
- Behavioral considerations: The individual must be able to manage their behavior and follow military rules and regulations.
Military Jobs and Roles
Not all military jobs are created equal when it comes to autism. Some jobs may be better suited for individuals with ASD than others. For example:
- Intelligence and communication: Jobs that involve intelligence gathering, communication, and data analysis may be a good fit for individuals with ASD.
- Technical and mechanical: Jobs that involve technical and mechanical tasks, such as maintenance and repair, may also be suitable.
- Support roles: Support roles, such as administrative and logistical positions, may also be a good fit.
Benefits and Accommodations
The military offers a range of benefits and accommodations to support individuals with ASD. These include:
- Mental health services: Access to mental health services, including counseling and therapy.
- Accommodations: Reasonable accommodations, such as modified work schedules and quiet workspaces, to help individuals with ASD succeed.
- Transition support: Support during the transition from civilian life to military life, including orientation and training programs.
- Career development: Opportunities for career development and advancement, including training and education programs.
Success Stories
There are many success stories of individuals with autism who have served in the military. For example:
- Air Force Airman: In 2015, the Air Force hired its first individual with ASD, an airman who served as a linguist and cryptologic language analyst.
- Navy Seaman: In 2017, the Navy welcomed its first individual with ASD, a seaman who served on a naval aircraft carrier.
- Army Soldier: In 2019, the Army welcomed its first individual with ASD, a soldier who served as a military intelligence analyst.
Conclusion
Can you join the military if you have autism? The answer is yes, but it’s important to consider the requirements and considerations outlined above. The military offers a range of benefits and accommodations to support individuals with ASD, and there are many success stories of individuals with autism who have served in the military.
Table: Military Jobs and Roles
| Job Category | Job Examples |
|---|---|
| Intelligence and Communication | Cryptologic Language Analyst, Intelligence Analyst |
| Technical and Mechanical | Aircraft Mechanic, Electronics Technician |
| Support Roles | Administrative Assistant, Logistics Specialist |
Key Takeaways
- Individuals with autism can join the military, but must meet specific requirements and considerations.
- The military offers a range of benefits and accommodations to support individuals with ASD.
- Some jobs may be better suited for individuals with ASD than others.
- Success stories of individuals with autism who have served in the military demonstrate the potential for individuals with ASD to thrive in the military.
