Preventing Explosions 1
For a variety of reasons, some individuals with autism occasionally display explosive, and potentially harmful behavior. Probably because these outbursts resemble temper tantrums, we tend to assume that an explosion indicates anger. In reality, sudden surges of disruptive or hurtful behavior can be caused by a broad range of factors.. Some individuals with autism, even those with excellent communication skills, respond to discomfort, intolerance, inflexibility, or anxiety by screaming, biting, rocking vigorously, throwing items, running away, or other explosive outbursts.
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It can take some intense detective work to discover the triggers for emotional storms. Taking time to find the clues allows us to be proactive rather than just reacting when we see a meltdown beginning. There are many factors that can escalate a situation, so look carefully at all that happens before, during, and after the meltdown.
DISCOMFORT. Some emotional outbursts are responses to physical issues such as headaches, digestive upsets, earaches, itching, sinus issues, and other aches and pains. Disruptive or hurtful behavior can be a response to discomfort related to hunger, tiredness, boredom, restlessness, or the need to go to the bathroom.
INFLEXIBILITY. Emotional outbursts can be indications of intolerance for change. Many individuals with autism are resistant to changes in schedule or unexpected interruptions of a regular routine. Their resistance can turn into an angry tug-of-war if no compromise if offered. Several of my friends get very agitated if someone leaves a door open, or if objects are moved from their regular spot. One young student was intolerant of other people wearing shoes without socks, and another obsessively rearranges magazines if they are not stacked in monthly sequence.
SENSORY ISSUES. Many individuals with autism cannot tolerate certain sensory input. Some resist close physical presence or noisy environments. Some are resistant to wearing shoes or other confining clothing, while others crave deep pressure and secure, tightly fitted clothing. Many people with autism have extreme sensitivities to sounds, touch, textures, tastes, light, smells, and other sensory input.
NEUROLOGICAL ISSUES. Some explosive behavior can be attributed to anxiety attacks or behavior disorders. Others seem to arise out of nowhere – somewhat like a neurological incident or a “behavior seizure.”
TIP FOR THE DAY. It may be difficult to discern the precise cause of explosive behavior, but it is helpful to keep in mind that these emotional outbursts are usually not simple temper tantrums. Individuals with autism can, of course, get unduly angry, but the cause of some explosions is often beyond their control. We’ll take a look at more catalysts for emotional meltdowns in part 2 of “Preventing Explosions.”
NOTE TO READERS AND LISTENERS: I am Cathy Knoll, a board certified music therapist and long-time friend of many folks with autism. At FAQautism.com we are committed to providing free, practical, everyday tips for making life better for people with autism. Feel free to send me a confidential email at talk@FAQautism.com with your thoughts or challenging situations or innovative solution. And don’t forget to check out our website for a wealth of ideas and a glimpse into the world of autism. http://FAQautism.com
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