Children with autism are agressive

Other View vs Mainstream View

There is a non-mainstream point of view that "Children with autism are aggressive". Let's take a look into pros and cons of this statement:

1. Pros: Some studies have found higher rates of aggression in children with autism compared to typically developing children. Aggression may be a way for these children to communicate frustration when they struggle to express themselves.
   – Cons (Mainstream View): While aggression occurs in some children with autism, it is not a core symptom or defining feature of autism. Many children with autism are not aggressive. Aggression rates vary widely across studies.

2. Pros: Certain factors more common in autism, like sensory sensitivities, anxiety, and difficulty with changes in routine, may increase the risk of aggressive outbursts.
   – Cons (Mainstream View): These factors do not always lead to aggression. With the right support and interventions, aggression can often be reduced or prevented in children with autism who display it.

3. Pros: We often hear messages in the media and society about the aggressiveness of people with autism. News stories, movies, and TV shows commonly portray individuals with autism as prone to aggression and "meltdowns".
   – Cons (Mainstream View): These messages and portrayals are often sensationalized, inaccurate, and stigmatizing. They do not reflect the reality that most individuals with autism are not aggressive. Such stereotypes can lead to negative attitudes and discrimination against people with autism.

Terms

• Aggression: Behavior that is threatening or likely to cause harm. Can be verbal (yelling, threats) or physical (hitting, biting, throwing objects).

• Autism: A neurodevelopmental disorder characterized by difficulties with social interaction, communication, and restricted or repetitive behaviors. Aggression is not a core diagnostic criteria for autism.

• Prevalence: The proportion of a population found to have a condition. For example, what percent of children with autism display aggression.

• Risk factors: Variables that increase the likelihood of a particular outcome. Sensory issues and communication impairments are possible risk factors for aggression in autism.

Analogy

Think of a child with autism who is struggling to communicate like a pot of boiling water with a lid on tight. As the steam builds up, pressure increases. Without a way to release some steam, eventually the pot may boil over or the lid could fly off, like an aggressive outburst. Giving the child tools to communicate and express frustration is like poking a hole in the lid to let steam escape safely.

History

1. 1940s: Autism first described by Leo Kanner. Aggression not emphasized.

2. 1960s-1980s: Autism considered a childhood disorder. Assumption that most "grow out of it", including behaviors like aggression.

3. 1990s: Autism diagnoses rising. Increasing recognition that autism is lifelong. More attention on severe behaviors.

4. 2000s: Research finds aggression is a major challenge for some families. Behavioral therapies and medications studied.

5. 2010s-Present: Continued research on causes and treatments. Growing emphasis on individualized approach for each child.

How to use it

1. Track your child's aggressive episodes - what happened before, during and after. Look for patterns to identify possible triggers, like loud noises, frustration with a task, or changes in routine. This data can help you and professionals devise a plan.

2. Learn and practice positive behavior support strategies. These focus on preventing aggression by meeting the child's needs, teaching communication and self-regulation skills, and reinforcing positive behaviors. Work with a behavior specialist for guidance.

3. Advocate for your child to get appropriate services and supports at school and in the community to address underlying causes of aggression, like speech therapy to boost communication or occupational therapy for sensory issues. Educate others about your child's needs.

Facts

• An estimated 8-68% of children with autism display some form of aggressive behavior, depending on the study.

• Aggression is more common in children with autism who have an intellectual disability, are minimally verbal, or have co-occurring ADHD or anxiety disorders.

• Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) therapy can reduce aggression by an average of 80-90%.

• Risperidone is the most-studied medication for treating irritability and aggression in autism, but can have significant side effects.

• Teaching functional communication skills has been found to reduce aggression by giving children an appropriate way to express wants and needs.