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How do I deal with disruptive behaviors?
When a loved one is diagnosed with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD), caregivers and family members typically educate themselves about the implications of this condition, its varying levels of severity, and its general characteristics. Within this spectrum, individuals may demonstrate exceptional talents alongside a unique set of difficulties, which can include disruptive behaviors. Challenging behaviors in autism can pose obstacles in daily life for both the individual and those around them.
Imagine a person with ASD who experiences the world differently because of his sensory sensitivity. He is in a noisy place and suddenly feels very overwhelmed, and his way of dealing with that discomfort may be to pull his hair, punch his face, or run away from the place without warning. Those are situations that anyone on the spectrum can experience.
If you are wondering, “How do I deal with disruptive behaviors?” Understanding your child’s needs and characteristics is the first step to helping them manage challenging behaviors and anticipate situations that may jeopardize the well-being of people on the spectrum.
At ABA Centers of Pennsylvania, our therapists, through strategies involving ABA therapy, have been able to reduce and implement positive coping strategies and skills development so that this overstimulated world does not significantly affect individuals on the spectrum.
Keep reading this blog to learn why challenging behaviors in autism happen and what you can do to manage them!
What are Challenging Behaviors in Autism?
Challenging behaviors in autism are more common than they may seem, ranging from repetitive behaviors to self-harming behaviors. For example, in a study by Pediatric Reports, in a survey of 2327 individuals with autism, more than 40% experienced both self-injurious and aggressive behaviors.
Even your loved one may be experiencing some disruptive behavior that you haven’t identified, so pay attention to the following common challenging behaviors in autism:
Aggression: This behavior may include hitting, kicking, biting, or other physically harmful actions toward oneself or others.
Self-Injury: Individuals with autism may engage in self-injurious behaviors such as head-banging, scratching, or biting themselves.
Non-compliance: Difficulty following instructions or refusing to participate in activities can be challenging for caregivers and educators. Non-compliance may stem from difficulties with communication, changes in routine, or sensory issues.
Repetitive Behaviors: Commonly known as stimming, repetitive behaviors like hand-flapping, rocking, or spinning objects help individuals with autism self-regulate or manage sensory input. While often soothing for the individual, these behaviors can be disruptive in specific settings.
Elopement: Also known as wandering, it is a behavior that can put the individual at risk by leaving safe environments without supervision. Individuals may elope as a response to escape from overwhelming situations or pursue specific interests.
The reasons behind these behaviors are multifaceted, often stemming from the individual’s difficulty in communicating their needs or discomforts. Factors such as sensory sensitivities, frustration from communication challenges, or the inability to cope with changes in routine can trigger these responses.
In addition, underlying mental health problems, such as anxiety, can exacerbate these behaviors. According to The Journal of Personalized Medicine, anxiety affects around 40% to 80% of neurodivergent individuals and can trigger sudden outbursts, including aggression and temper tantrums.
Why Autistic Individuals are More Sensitive?
One of the fundamental characteristics of individuals with autism is their heightened sensitivity, which makes it difficult for them, for example, to be in environments with many people, much noise, or even high temperatures or strong odors. But why does this happen?
Research from the National Library of Medicine highlights that individuals with ASD exhibit distinct patterns of brain activity. These patterns can contribute to heightened sensitivity to sensory input, where individuals may experience either heightened or reduced sensitivity to various stimuli such as loud noises, bright lights, textures, and visual cues. This heightened sensitivity can often lead individuals with ASD to become overwhelmed by sensory information, resulting in meltdowns or shutdowns as coping mechanisms.
Tips to Manage Challenging Behaviors
Addressing challenging behaviors in individuals with autism is a journey that requires understanding, patience, and tailored strategies. At ABA Centers of Pennsylvania, our ABA therapists have extensive experience in supporting individuals with autism and their families through this journey. Here are some practical tips to help you navigate and manage challenging behaviors in autism effectively at home:
1. Understand the Triggers: Challenging behaviors often stem from specific triggers. These triggers could vary from individual to individual and may include sensory sensitivities, difficulties with communication, changes in routine, or frustration with tasks. By closely observing your child’s behavior patterns, you can start to identify common triggers. Once you understand what sets off these behaviors, you can proactively address them and work towards preventing meltdowns or outbursts.
2. Establish Consistent Routines: Children with autism often thrive on routine and predictability. Having a structured daily schedule can provide a sense of security and stability for your child. Consistent routines not only help reduce anxiety but also make it easier for your child to anticipate what comes next. Be sure to communicate any changes in routine in advance and provide visual supports, such as a visual schedule, to help your child understand and prepare for transitions.
3. Use Visual Supports: Visual supports are invaluable tools for children with autism as they rely heavily on visual information to understand the world around them. Visual supports can range from simple picture schedules outlining daily activities to more complex visual charts or social stories explaining expected behaviors in various situations. These visual aids provide clear, concrete cues that can help your child navigate their environment more effectively and reduce anxiety.
4. Implement Positive Reinforcement: Positive reinforcement involves rewarding desired behaviors to encourage their repetition. It’s essential to focus on reinforcing positive behaviors rather than solely punishing challenging ones. Positive reinforcement can take many forms, including verbal praise, tokens, stickers, or preferred activities or items. Tailor your reinforcement to what motivates your child, and be consistent in providing praise and rewards for their efforts and achievements.
5. Practice and Patience: Managing challenging behaviors requires a considerable amount of patience and empathy. It’s essential to recognize that your child may be struggling with underlying issues such as sensory overload or difficulty expressing their needs. Approach challenging behaviors with understanding and compassion, and try to see the situation from your child’s perspective.
6. Seek Professional Support: Managing challenging behaviors can be overwhelming, and it’s okay to ask for help. Reach out to professionals such as therapists, behavior analysts, or support groups. These professionals can offer valuable insights, guidance, and interventions tailored to your child’s specific needs.
7. Teach Coping Strategies: Teaching your child coping strategies can empower them to manage difficult emotions or situations more effectively. Work with an ABA therapist to identify strategies that work best for them, whether it’s taking deep breaths, using sensory tools like fidget toys or weighted blankets, or taking breaks in a quiet, calming space.
8. Take Care of Yourself: Parenting a child with autism can be emotionally and physically demanding. It’s essential to prioritize self-care and seek support when needed. Remember that you will be capable of supporting your child when you feel rested, refreshed, and emotionally balanced. Make time for activities that bring you joy and relaxation, and don’t hesitate to lean on friends, family, or support groups for assistance and encouragement.
ABA Centers of Pennsylvania Promote Positive Behaviors
As we continue to deepen our understanding of autism and its complexities, we must prioritize effective strategies for addressing challenging behaviors. By fostering empathy, providing tailored support, and promoting evidence-based interventions such as ABA therapy, we can cultivate environments that nurture the strengths and capabilities of individuals and families navigating autism.
ABA Centers of Pennsylvania promotes positive behaviors and improves the quality of life for individuals with autism and their families. Through personalized intervention plans, ABA therapists work collaboratively with individuals to target specific behaviors, teach essential skills, and foster independence.
Through practical strategies, evidence-based techniques, and applied behavior analysis techniques, ABA therapists empower families in King of Prussia and Philadelphia to navigate daily challenges effectively and create a supportive environment at home by teaching self-regulation and alternative communication skills to help individuals express their needs and emotions more effectively.
Let’s work together for your child’s development. Call us at (844) 444-7496 or schedule a free appointment, and our professionals will explain how the therapies and other autism care services we offer work for growing individuals on the spectrum.
