Coping with Obsessions and Rituals in Aspergers Kids

By Mark Hutten, M.A.
One of the hallmarks of Asperger's is the development of obsessive thinking and the performing of ritual behaviors done to reduce stress and anxiety. This type of behavior can later meet the criteria in adulthood for OCD. Kids on the autism spectrum often have an obsessive interest in a particular subject, and they may be very inflexible in their habits and may rigidly adhere to certain routines or rituals. These obsessions and compulsions are believed to be biological in origin, which means that it is very difficult to go to therapy or just talk the child out of the rituals.

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