Matter of Degree
One of the primary characteristics in autism is that of restrictive and repetitive behaviors. At what point do these issues become a problem? Since restrictive behaviors are inherent in autism, is it reasonable to expect people with autism to stop all restrictive behaviors? Is the heart of the issue actually a matter of degree?
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First, let us take a quick look at different types of obsessive, restrictive, repetitive behaviors. Every individual diagnosed with autism has some difficulty with at least one of these issues to one degree or another.
A. Obsessive rituals
B. Repetitive mannerisms and stimming
C. Inflexible routines
D. Intolerance for change
E. Resistance to transition
F. Extraordinary sensory issues
G. Narrow repertoire of interests
Is the repetitive mannerism, inflexibility, or obsessive interest a problem? Experience teaches us that all issues related to autism are a matter of degree. Although inflexibility and obsessiveness are inherent in autism, we can, in some cases, gradually help a person build tolerance for change. The key to success is to determine which issues must be addressed and to leave the other issues alone.
We learn we cannot micromanage every detail of a person’s life, so we overlook issues that do not cause specific problems. So, for example, we allow our friends with autism to watch a favorite movie over and over or to insist on a certain brand of toilet paper, a daily menu of the same three items at every meal, or watching the same movie for years on end. Restrictive interests and repetitive behaviors are inherent in autism, it is probably counterproductive to try to erase all such perseverative interests.
On the other hand, some obsessions must be shaped. For example, I have several friends with autism who insist on riding in a certain car with just one family member driving. This causes major issues when that person is not available to drive or when the favorite car must be traded in for a different car. In another example, one of my students became extraordinarily attached to a certain pair of shoes. The youngster eventually outgrew the shoes and experienced major trauma for several months when it became absolutely necessary to get new shoes.
TIP FOR THE DAY: All of us are inflexible to some extent about some aspects of our daily lives. The difference with autism is a matter of degree. Life is smoother for all concerned if we follow a two-step plan: (1) to tolerate some obsessive interests and behaviors, (2) to patiently help our friends with autism learn flexibility, tolerance for change, and other key life skills.
We can also benefit from sharpening our skills in being able to systematically address challenging issues that can arise in the lives of our friends with autism. Click on the Toolkit tab on our webiste for great resources; http://FAQautism.com
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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