Hitting, Part 1
It can come out of nowhere. In spite of our implementing pro-active strategies for decreasing aggressive behaviors, some youngsters with autism occasionally reach out suddenly, impulsively hitting, biting, pinching, or scratching anyone in reach. What causes these abrupt, hurtful actions?
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For example, last week I observed (or was the target of) a number of incidents of aggressive behavior by children and teens with autism, most of whom are in structured, supportive classrooms with well-trained teachers and classroom aids.
Most are long-time students in music therapy who have made progress over time in target areas addressing aggressive behaviors. Depending on the youngster, music therapy strategies focus on developing specific skills in the general areas of, among other things, communicating more effectively, tolerating transition to a greater extent, participating more readily in group settings, and expressing frustration in a more appropriate manner.
Although we have worked diligently to prevent aggression and to teach more appropriate interaction, these youngsters are still known, on occasion, to suddenly lash out, hitting, pinching, biting, or scratching the person sitting closest to them. Each person is different, of course, but these are some of the triggers for aggressive behavior I documented last week: overstimulation, delay in processing information, frustration, attempts to get attention, attempts to connect personally with people, and reaction to sensory sensitivities.
Tune in to Hitting, Part 2 as we continue this discussion with a brief look at the correlation between aggressive behavior and each of these factors common to autism.
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
