Crossing the Line
When do rituals and repetitive behaviors and transition issues and inflexibility cross the line? At what point do we need to address issues related to restrictive behaviors rather than just writing them off as an inherent part of autism?
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As is true with most issues related to autism, there is no single answer to these questions. Autism covers such a broad spectrum, making it impossible to come up with pat answers and solid solutions that apply to every case. At the same time, there are a few general guidelines to consider when it comes to restrictive, obsessive, repetitive behaviors.
1. SAFETY. We must, of course, step in when rituals or other restrictive behaviors threaten or compromise the safety of an individual with autism or people around him. For example, one of my friends walked into traffic one day because she was so focused on her flapping hands. Although hand flapping may seem a bit odd to outside observers, the habit don’t usually significantly disrupt lives. But, if hand-flapping keeps a person from paying attention to their surroundings, even busy traffic, it is probably a good idea to address that habit.
2. RESPECT. If a person’s privacy is invaded or their daily life is significantly disrupted because of restrictive behaviors related to autism, we need to step in. For example, one of my new adult friends with autism stands very close to people, even complete strangers, and talks to them loudly and non-stop about the same topic, repeating sentences over and over. We are working very intensely to help decrease the distance, the volume, the length, and the frequency of those encounters.
3. POTENTIAL FOR CHANGE. In my opinion, we are doing our friends with autism a disservice if we make no attempt to help shape their obsessive and restrictive habits or interests. That doesn’t mean that we should focus on change all day long in a futile effort to force individuals with autism into a mold of “normalcy.” But I have seen the quality of life of dozens and dozens of people improve as we have helped them develop new interests, expand their horizons, explore new possibilities, and learn to enjoy friendships and personal connections.
TIP FOR THE DAY: Some restrictive behaviors can be ignored, and others can be tolerated. But sometimes inflexibility, rituals, and other repetitive issues cross a line, requiring us to address the problem and shape more appropriate behaviors.
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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