Why do people with autism struggle with transitions?

Additionally, individuals with ASD are more likely to have restrictive patterns of behaviors (per the diagnostic criteria) that are hard to disrupt, thus creating difficulty at times of transitions.

What are the struggles with autism?

Common Challenges

  • social phobia.
  • excessive worry/rumination.
  • obsessive compulsive behaviour.
  • hyper-vigilance, or seeming “shell shocked”
  • phobias.
  • avoidance behaviours.
  • rigid routines and resistance to change.
  • stimming and/or self-injurious behaviour.

How can a change in routine affect an adult with autism?

For some people with autism, a change in routine, however small, could lead to anxiety. As such, strict routines could cause issues if a person is being supported by someone who is not aware of their exact habits, or if their environment changes, such as their regular café being closed. Changes are inevitable in life.

What is transitional anxiety?

Employing this coping mechanism during stressful times of large life transitions and the resulting psychological effects of increased anxiety and depressive symptoms is what I coin ‘transitional anxiety’. Transitional anxiety can be seen at any stage but is most common amongst the youths.

What are the three challenging areas for a child with autism?

Other Challenging Issues Common to Autism

  • Noise Sensitivity.
  • Sleep Problems and other Sleep Issues.
  • Sensory Issues: Seeking and Avoiding.
  • Mood Instability and Meltdowns.
  • The Challenge of Physical Fitness for People with Autism.
  • Executive Function Issues.
  • Activities of Daily Living.

How do people with autism react to change?

When change occurs, children with ASD may respond in a variety of ways, including exhibiting withdrawal, repetitive behaviors, tantrums, or even aggression. It is important to remember that these behaviors are typically the result of extreme anxiety and/or inability to communicate their emotions/desires.

How do you deal with change in routine with autism?

Helping Children with Autism Cope with Change

  1. Talk it out. One strategy is telling them about changes in their schedule ahead of time.
  2. Use pictures. Create a visual schedule that you can adjust accordingly.
  3. Give cues. If transitioning from one activity to another is challenging, give cues.
  4. Allow for extra time.
  5. Be positive.

Why do I struggle with transitions?

Transitions are often a struggle because whatever you did before as a way of coping and dealing isn’t working anymore. It is like old software on a computer that no longer works the new system. Time for an upgrade and transitional times are the best times to upgrade.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=deY72-1EVTI