Samenvatting

In the Netherlands, like in many countries worldwide, organizing the best possible care and support and guidance for individuals with autism is a matter of concern to which much thinking has been devoted. The dissemination and implementation of new concepts of care and support for individuals with autism through the life-span from the perspective of the capability approach and the positive health stance open windows of opportunity to empowerment and self-esteem in a society that moves from a welfare state to a participation society. The central question is how care and support for adults with autism can contribute to enhancing the capability of living the life they want. This asks for major shifts, not only in the approach to care and support, but also in the field of research into effective and meaningful treatment and guidance approaches.