Tips for Parents of Teens on the Autism Spectrum: Risky Behaviors & Safety

Adolescence is a time of stretching boundaries, testing independence, and seeking identity. For autistic teenagers, these years can carry additional risks because of differences in social understanding, sensory processing, and communication. Parents often find themselves caught between wanting to protect their teen and needing to grant them more autonomy. This chapter‑style article explores risky behaviors and safety for autistic teens—how to recognize them, why they happen, and what parents can do to build protective systems while preserving trust. Why Risk Looks Different in Autistic Teens Autistic teens may engage in risky behaviors for reasons distinct from their neurotypical peers: Sensory seeking or avoidance: Running into the street, climbing, or touching dangerous objects can stem from sensory needs rather than thrill‑seeking. Literal thinking: Difficulty reading hidden dangers, sarcasm, or manipulative intentions in others. Social vulnerability: More likely to ...