Reply to Strong willed, Stubborn, or on the spectrum

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[quote=Anonymous]

there's a big difference between tantrums and autistic meltdowns. Your child is having a tantrum.

http://columbustelegram.com/meltdown-vs-tantrum/article_f81e0257-f46b-5109-825f-56438817f1c9.html

There are distinct differences between a tantrum and a meltdown for children.

During a temper tantrum:

• The child wants a reaction and will check to see if they are getting one.

• The child can alter behavior to ensure they do not get hurt.

• The child will use a situation to his/her benefit.

• Once the goal of the tantrum is met, the behavior returns to normal.

• The child is in control the whole time.

During a meltdown:

• The child has no awareness of the social impact of the situation.

• The child is not concerned for their own safety.

• The child does not care if or how others react to his/her behavior during the meltdown.

• A meltdown is best defined by saying it is a total loss of behavioral control.

• The behaviors are generally not on purpose.

Signs of the 'Rage stage'

• Screaming, biting, kicking

• Impulsive acts

• Explosive, emotional

• Destroying property

• Internalized behavior

Children may not remember what happened during the 'Rage stage' or may apologize. A child may deny it happened or go into a withdrawal phase where a fantasy world may be the target. Once the rage cycle starts, all opportunities for learning for the child are gone. During the 'Rage stage' is when the neurotransmitters are not working correctly.

Rage interventions

• Protect the child

• Protect others and the environment

• Obtain assistance

• Remove the audience

• Follow a plan

• Use few words

• Be nonconfrontational

Children with Autism Spectrum Disorders (ASD) have trouble detecting how they feel and do not know how to calm themselves. The ability to verbalize what they are to do and doing it are two different skills. A child can repeat a phrase, paragraph or request but cannot do it.

Source: www.educationnews.org; Dr. Brenda Smith Myles, "The Cycle of Rage and Meltdowns," www.texasautism.com
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