While autism is an incurable condition, learning and development is possible with the proper treatment and education. Parents of autistic children should embrace early intervention opportunities whenever possible, as these can help children and caretakers develop individualized strategies for dealing with some of the more challenging behaviors associated with autism. In addition to developing coping mechanisms for aggressive behavior in autistic children, early intervention can help provide a greater degree of independence as a child gets older.
Types of Aggression
Aggressive behavior is common in children with autism. According to DisabledWorld.com, there are several forms of aggression. Physical aggression can cause an autistic child to hurt himself and others, and even cause property damage when directed at inanimate objects. Autistic children also can engage in verbal aggression that includes insults and yelling. Regardless of whether aggression is verbal or physical, it can be disturbing and possibly dangerous, and requires additional supervision to ensure the safety of everyone involved.
Medication
Medication is a common first line of defense to reduce aggression, particularly when the behavior becomes dangerous. According to ABC News affiliate WCHSTV.com, children with autism have had success with anti-psychotic drugs approved by the Food and Drug Administration for schizophrenia. In fact, the results of a 2002 study of the anti-psychotic medication risperidone led by Kennedy Krieger Institute Pediatric Psychiatrist Elaine Tierney, showed an almost 70 percent behavioral improvement rate with this drug.
Parents and patients should be aware that these drugs have side effects that include drooling, weight gain and fatigue.
Behavioral Therapy
Doctors use behavior modification techniques, sometimes in conjunction with medication, to treat aggression in autistic patients. According to the Health Communities website, behavioral therapy works to teach appropriate social behaviors in the belief that it will help stem aggressive behavior. Behavioral interventions can include applied behavior analysis, in which good behavior gets rewarded and poor behavior ignored; sensory integration therapy, in which autistic patients slowly build up tolerance for stimulation that triggers aggression; and play therapy to teach improved social skills in a controlled setting.
Dietary Modifications
Although dietary choices do not cause autism, arguments regarding dietary modifications to treat autism symptoms remain controversial. According to HealthCommunities.com, studies have shown promise that vitamin C can help lessen the severity of symptoms in patients with autism.
Aggression Diffusion Techniques
When an autistic child becomes aggressive, DisabledWorld.com recommends staying calm and talking quietly while refraining from saying anything inflammatory. When faced with this situation, caretakers should remove objects that could prove dangerous, and ask that others leave the room so that the autistic person is in a one-on-one situation with a trusted individual. These efforts should help quiet down an aggressive child and soothe the aggression temporarily.
