Be Happy! Why Worry ?

 

ِGaining Control over Oneself in Autism

Gaining Control over Oneself in Autism

The majority of autistic youngsters struggle to develop self-discipline. Not only do improper outbursts fall under this category, but so do potentially dangerous habits like hitting their head against walls or acting aggressively toward others.

Self-management is one method parents and educators can use to curb autistic tendencies and prevent these and other behaviors. 

Often the key to maintaining control over violent situations and possibly a good first step towards learning other behaviors as well is to give the youngster authority over themselves.

Because the youngster is no longer entirely under the authority of others, self-management is effective. When self-management is ingrained in a child's routine at particular times of the day, like as they attend therapy or school, they are more likely to maintain this habit throughout the day. 

The secret is to put in place a system that allows them to keep an eye on their own actions and behavior. Start with little periods and keep a more passive eye on the child throughout. Remind the youngster that they are in charge and that they should keep an eye out for both good and poor behavior every ten to fifteen minutes.

This self-evaluation is being done through monitoring. When a youngster is in charge, he or she might consider previous and present actions more carefully. 

Together with the youngster, establish specific objectives, such as a day at school without self-harm or an afternoon free from hostility toward others. 

Check-in with the child every fifteen minutes to see how they are doing. Is the aim being achieved? If the response is negative, the youngster might not be prepared for self-management or the objectives might be too lofty. 

To progress the youngster toward more challenging goals later on, you should make sure that the initial goals are manageable. A child who is proficient in self-monitoring will have a more positive attitude towards the experience.

Of course, a rewards system is a crucial component of self-management. Depending on the child's interests, let him or her choose the prize on their own. 

The child will feel fully in control of the self-management system by selecting and rewarding themselves, which will help reinforce these positive behavior goals in their minds. 

When a set number of smiling faces is reached, work your way up to a larger objective, like a new toy or special activity. Start with simple prizes, like cheerful faces for every goal met and sad faces for every goal not met.

Of course, a rewards system is a crucial component of self-management. Depending on the child's interests, let him or her choose the prize on their own. The child will feel fully in control of the self-management system by selecting and rewarding themselves, which will help reinforce these positive behavior goals in their minds. 

When a set number of smiling faces is reached, work your way up to a larger objective, like a new toy or special activity. Start with simple prizes, like cheerful faces for every goal met and sad faces for every goal not met.