Posts

"Blind Rage" in Children on the Autism Spectrum

Image
"How can you handle an explosive child (high functioning autistic) who has tantrums and/or meltdowns that end up becoming violent in nature?" Some children with Aspergers and High-Functioning Autism (HFA) are known for their “explosive” and “out-of-control” behavior. This is referred to as “blind rage.” A blind rage is “blind” in the sense that the affected child may not be totally aware of his or her behavior during the rage episode.  It’s a feeling of intense and growing anger that is associated with the fight-or-flight response, but should not be confused with temper tantrums or meltdowns. During a tantrum, the child is aware of his or her behavior and motives, whereas rage occurs in a semi-conscious state. Meltdowns are driven more by anxiety-related issues (e.g., sensory sensitivities), whereas rage is driven more by anger-related issues and a need to retaliate. An Aspergers or HFA child with ADHD and/or ODD has an increased susceptibility to blind rage. Ra

Empowering Children on the Autism Spectrum: The Ultimate Parenting Challenge

Image
What are some of the best tips for "empowering" a special needs child on the autism spectrum? Raising a youngster with Asperger’s (AS) or High Functioning Autism (HFA) will have its ups and downs. There are going to be times when you want to crawl back into bed and put the covers up over your head (and occasionally you have to give in to that). But, you have to get right back up and push forward. You should always keep your eye on the prize, which is your “special needs” youngster. Even though raising a youngster on the autism spectrum is a long journey, moms and dads have many options and places to turn for help. Early intervention is key. You have to get going right away, because time is of the essence. Get focused on what your mission is. Here’s how… Best tips for empowering a child on the autism spectrum: 1. Assess your youngster's need for medication. While there is no medication for Asperger’s or High Functioning Autism, there are drugs for s

COMMENTS & QUESTIONS [for October, 2013]

Image
My son who has Asperger Syndrome , just joined a new school in UK came home today crying his heart out because his so called group of friends ran away from him and avoided him the whole day - and it just broke my heart. He is 14 years old and he faces this same problem when he joins a new school. He was so happy when he found this group but for whatever reason they decided to abandon him. I really hope I can get some help in dealing with this problem.  It is so difficult trying to explain things to him about friendship and how to interact with his peers and being the new guy in school. ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~ My daughter, who is four, has many great days at school.  I know it takes everything in her to make the days great and she really lets us know at home! I'm wondering if you have any advice  regarding toilet training.  My daughter has known when she needs to go since she was 19 months old.  At home she does not wear a diaper until she requests one.  She is embarrass