Autism and Anger Management
Adults diagnosed with autism spectrum disorder (ASD), including Asperger’s and autism, are prone to anger outbursts. An ‘on-off’ quality during which individuals may be calm one second and then have an autism outburst in the next is common. Family members and significant others may grow resentful over time due to misunderstanding this behavior. Conflict can be handled properly by helping the affected individual and immediate family members understand the causes of this anger. According to autism-help.org, these are six common causes of anger in relation to ASD:
- Being swamped by multiple tasks or sensory stimulation: Multi-tasking is common in today’s on-the-move society. People expect others to be able to do more than one task at a time. But what may seem minimal to some can be extremely stressful to an individual on the spectrum, resulting in autism mood swings.
- Other people’s behavior: Someone with autism may take great offense to insensitive or sarcastic comments that most may judge as light humor. Being ignored, whether on purpose or by accident, is a prevalent trigger as well.
- Having routine and order disrupted: Autism causes individuals to function differently, and many subconsciously cope with stress by following strict daily regimes. Disrupting a routine means disrupting a coping mechanism. For those struggling with autism and anger, the organization of their room can be very important to their routine. Moving something around in their area could cause a huge disruption to their comfort zone and lead to an autism outburst.
- Difficulties with employment and relationships: Many individuals on the spectrum report feeling like their talents and capabilities are often overlooked and unappreciated. For example, employers may not sympathize with their needs. And people who are uninformed about their condition might dismiss their attempts at friendship or communication.
- Intolerance of imperfections in others: Both physically and mentally, the individual may have stressors indirectly caused by people. For example, high-pitched voices or people who speak too fast may be stressors. Allowing them to express these aggravations may result in a further understanding of their autistic mood swings.
- A buildup of stress: Everything previously listed can potentially add up to a buildup of stress. Individuals who haven’t taken steps towards managing anger can have a hard time dealing with built-up stress. Many individuals on the spectrum need support when it comes to processing their stress and emotions.
How to Stop Aggression in Adults with ASD
If you’re wondering, “How do you stop aggression in adults with autism?” while understanding is key, it’s only the first step. It’s important to use this knowledge to change your approach towards autism anger management.
What’s the underlying issue behind their anger? How can an outburst be prevented from occurring in the first place?
Individuals who live and work around someone with ASD must be empathetic and consistent in their behavior. This will lead to a better environment for everyone involved.
Autism Anger Management Technique for Adults
According to Autism Parenting Magazine, some coping skills and anger management techniques for those with ASD include:
- Listening to music
- Going for a walk
- Exercising
- Practicing deep breathing
- Using sensory and fidget toys
- Engaging in a relaxing activity
Autism Spectrum Disorder Treatment at Pasadena Villa
For certain cases of ASD, treatment may be the best option. Pasadena Villa’s Stables Autism Program specializes in helping those with ASD gain self-awareness, acceptance, inner strength, and life strategies to live a more independent life.
At our Stables Autism Program facility for adults, our multidisciplinary ASD treatment team helps clients set and achieve individual goals at their own pace. Set in the Great Smoky Mountains, our non-institutional setting enables clients to comfortably explore the vast possibilities that an independent life can have for people on the autism spectrum.
References
