How to Cope With Autism in Teen Boys
When your son with autism becomes a teen, puberty and hormonal mood swings kick in. The unusual way his autistic brain works presents him with specific additional challenges. He may become bigger and stronger than other members of the family or his teachers, and at the same time, may struggle with self-control. Teen boys tend to communicate less easily than girls, and boys with autism find it harder still to discuss emotions, consequences of their actions or relationships with others.
Instructions
Teach your son a safety signal to use at home or at school, such as saying, ̶0;Break please̶1; or ̶0;Stop̶1; when he becomes angry, suggests Emily Cain, writing on The Positively Autism website. Make sure you react consistently to his signal, removing him from the situation to avoid physical outbursts that may become difficult and dangerous in a male teen. Recognize and avoid triggers that lead your son to lose control. For example, when he encounters too much noise and bustle in a shopping mall, be sure that no one stands too close, touches him unexpectedly or talks too rapidly. Remember his combination of being a teen male, autism and hormones mean poor communication skills make it especially hard to express feelings and needs, so think ahead to help him avoid problematic situations. Watch for bullying at school and discuss any concerns with your son's teachers. Teen boys with autism are at particular risk, suggests USNews.com. Other teen boys, also growing bigger and stronger, and confused by their own hormones, may find him an easy target. Your teen may be persuaded to go along with their suggestions and he may be vulnerable to fake friendships. Check out any torn clothing, damaged books or physical bruising and ask your teen's teacher for help if you suspect bullying. His school may be able to implement social and emotional learning programs to reduce a bullying culture. Learn to recognize signs that your son may be struggling, because his poor communication skills likely prevent him from telling you when he feels upset. Watch for sudden mood changes or rages, differences in his sleep pattern or eating problems, such as becoming excessively thin or putting on too much weight. Charlotte Moore, writing on the MailOnline website, explains that her teen son with autism developed unrealistic notions, refusing to eat because he did not want to grow. Help your teen learn to communicate as well as possible with others in social situations. He likely does not easily understand the facial expressions, body language or tone of voice that convey emotions. Use pictures and TV programs to help him gradually improve his nonverbal communication skills.
