Understanding Unpredictable Behavior in Autism
Individuals with autism often exhibit unpredictable behaviors, which can vary greatly from person to person. These behaviors may sometimes manifest as self-harming actions, such as purposefully banging their head against objects. In other instances, individuals with autism may display aggression towards those around them. The underlying cause of these behaviors remains uncertain, as they may be attributed to emotional disturbances or physical discomfort.
Unusual Responses to Touch and Sound in Autism
Individuals with autism often exhibit unique sensitivities to specific objects and sounds. Many individuals with this condition are hypersensitive to noise, experiencing heightened discomfort or distress in response to certain sounds. For example, the sound of a ceiling fan operating at high speed may overwhelm a young child with autism, leading to tears or extreme distress. Additionally, some individuals with autism may have aversions to physical touch, reacting with recoiling or discomfort when touched. These touch and sound sensitivities in autism are areas where therapists employ various strategies to assist individuals in managing and coping with everyday sounds and touches.