Published on August 20th, 2024

Picture this: you're at a family gathering, and a distant cousin starts talking about children and teens with autism. They mention that these kids don't show emotions or that only boys can have autism. You might get a little frustrated because, while they mean well, these statements are myths that just won't seem to go away. At Honey Beehavior Analysis in South Jordan, Utah, we come across these misconceptions all too often. Clearing up these misunderstandings is crucial for fostering empathy and understanding, which is why we're dedicated to educating families and communities. 

Imagine if every time someone thought incorrectly about autism, you had a ready answer to set the record straight. For instance, a common myth is that autistic children and teens don't experience emotions or empathy. However, anyone who has spent time with them knows that they do feel deeply, sometimes even more intensely than their neurotypical peers. They might just express these emotions in different ways, such as through unique gestures or actions. Understanding this can make a huge difference in how we communicate and connect with them, offering a richer perspective on what empathy and emotional expression really mean. From hand-flapping when they are excited to humming a favorite tune, these are just different ways of showing what they feel inside. 

Then there's the idea that autism mainly affects boys. While it's true that boys are diagnosed more frequently, girls can have autism too. Often, their symptoms might be less noticeable or masked by different social behaviors. An autistic girl might excel in areas like reading or have a deep affection for animals, which can sometimes delay a diagnosis. By understanding that autism doesn't discriminate by gender, we can better support all children and teens. Recognizing these subtleties early can lead to effective interventions that offer everyone the chance to thrive and reach their potential.

Debunking Myths About Autism in Children and Teens

First up, let’s tackle the idea that children and teens with autism lack emotions or empathy. This is simply not true. Autistic children and teens definitely experience a full range of emotions, sometimes even intensely. They may express or process emotions differently, which can sometimes be misinterpreted. For example, while a neurotypical child might show excitement by jumping up and down, an autistic child might flap their hands or hum a favorite tune. Both expressions are valid, just different. It’s also essential to recognize that many autistic teens are deeply empathetic. They might feel overwhelmed by others' emotions, sometimes making it hard for them to express their own. As you get to know an autistic child or teen, you might find they show their empathy in ways that aren't immediately obvious, like through acts of kindness or a desire to help others. 

Another widespread myth is that autism only affects boys. While it's true that boys are diagnosed with autism more frequently, girls can have autism too. However, their symptoms might be less noticeable or masked by different social behaviors. For instance, an autistic girl might have intense interest in a socially accepted activity, like reading or animals, which leads to her symptoms being overlooked. This difference often means that girls are diagnosed later than boys, sometimes missing out on early intervention. Understanding that autism spectrum disorder doesn't discriminate based on gender helps in recognizing and supporting all autistic children and teens. With more awareness, we can catch those subtle cues and ensure every child gets the support and understanding they deserve. 

You might also hear people saying that teens with autism can't form meaningful relationships. This is another myth that needs busting. Autistic teens can and do form deep, meaningful relationships with family members, friends, and even romantic partners. They might approach relationships differently, valuing honesty over social niceties, for instance. These unique perspectives can lead to incredibly genuine connections. Furthermore, autistic teens often feel more comfortable and open with like-minded peers or understanding adults. Given patience and the right support, many thrive in social interactions. It's also worth noting that everyone’s social skills develop uniquely, regardless of whether they're on the autism spectrum. By fostering an inclusive and patient environment, we help all teens, whether autistic or not, enrich their social worlds and build fulfilling relationships. 

Mental Health Challenges in Autistic Children and Teens

Another crucial aspect to consider is the mental health of autistic children and teenagers. They often face unique mental health difficulties that can greatly impact their daily lives. For instance, anxiety disorders in autism are common, with many autistic children experiencing intense worry about changes in routine or social interactions. A child might become extremely distressed over something as simple as a last-minute schedule change, leading to a meltdown. For example, if a teen is anticipating a school field trip, but it gets canceled without advance notice, this sudden alteration can trigger significant anxiety. Recognizing these scenarios allows parents and caregivers to build in supports and preparation that can mitigate these stressors. 

Furthermore, executive skills and flexibility issues are another set of challenges. Executive skills involve the ability to plan, organize, and complete tasks, which autistic children and teens often struggle with. A teen might find it difficult to follow a multi-step process for completing homework, leading to frustration and incomplete assignments. Flexibility issues can make it hard for them to shift from one activity to another, like moving from watching TV to starting homework without becoming upset. When children and teens face these organization problems, they may need visual schedules or step-by-step guidance to help them manage their tasks more effectively. These strategies can make a significant difference in their ability to function in daily routines. 

Addressing mental health difficulties in autistic children and teenagers is essential for their overall well-being. Ignoring these challenges can exacerbate anxiety disorders, executive skills, and organization problems, leading to a cycle of stress and difficulty. For instance, if a child is constantly anxious about social interactions, it can affect their self-esteem and willingness to engage with peers. By understanding and addressing these intersecting challenges, we help build a supportive environment that fosters resilience and growth. Imagine a scenario where a teen knows they have a supportive network at school and home, helping them navigate anxiety and flexibility issues. This support can empower them to develop coping strategies and thrive in various settings.

Addressing Communication and Interaction Difficulties 

A significant challenge for many autistic children and teens is addressing communicating difficulties. These difficulties can present in various ways, whether a child is verbal or nonverbal. Verbal autistic children might face challenges such as understanding abstract language, idioms, or emotions conveyed through tone of voice. They may also struggle with conversational turn-taking, making it seem like they are talking at someone rather than with them. On the other hand, nonverbal autistic children may rely heavily on alternative communication methods such as picture exchange communication systems (PECS), sign language, or electronic communication devices. One of the most practical ways parents and educators can support these children is through the use of visual supports, social stories, and other structured communication aids. These tools can help make abstract concepts more concrete and provide cues that assist in understanding social interactions and expectations. 

Interacting difficulties are another common hurdle. Just like communication, interaction involves both verbal and nonverbal elements. Autistic children might have trouble reading social cues such as facial expressions, body language, and other forms of nonverbal communication. Some might seem to prefer solitary activities, which can be misinterpreted as a lack of interest in others. However, with parents' observations and understanding, educators and family members can create an inclusive environment that nurtures these interactions. Encouraging peer mentoring programs, structured playdates, and social skills groups can foster a sense of belonging and help autistic children practice their social skills in a supportive setting. Consistent routines and clear expectations also play a key role in reducing anxiety related to social interactions, allowing autistic children to engage more comfortably with their peers. 

Effective autism treatment approaches to improve communication include Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) therapy, which focuses on teaching new skills and refining existing ones. Tailored to each child's unique needs, ABA can be particularly beneficial for managing both communicating and interacting difficulties. Speech therapy is another critical component that can target specific communication challenges, whether they are verbal or nonverbal. Occupational therapy often complements these treatments, aiding in sensory processing issues that may affect communication and interaction. For parents, understanding and observing their child’s unique social and communication patterns is crucial. Providing opportunities for practice in a variety of settings, combined with positive reinforcement, can make a significant impact. Keeping an open line of communication with educators and therapists helps ensure that children and teens receive consistent support across all areas of their lives. 

At Honey Beehavior Analysis, we understand that raising an autistic child or teen can be a journey full of unique experiences and challenges. Whether dealing with communication barriers, interaction difficulties, or mental health issues, individualized ABA therapy can significantly improve day-to-day functioning and overall quality of life. Our team of dedicated therapists takes a trauma-informed approach to create personalized support plans that address each child's specific needs. By focusing on teaching new skills, refining existing ones, and providing a supportive environment, we ensure that your child or teen receives the comprehensive care they deserve. 

It's important to remember that you are not alone in this journey. Here at Honey Beehavior Analysis, we emphasize family involvement and collaboration, ensuring that parents and caregivers are well-equipped with the tools and knowledge necessary to support their children. Our services extend beyond the therapy room to include parent training sessions, school consultations, and ongoing support. We believe a well-rounded approach is key to your child's success, and our goal is to foster resilience and growth across all areas of their lives. Whether it's helping with transitioning between activities, using visual schedules, or building social skills, our team is here to guide and support you every step of the way. 

If you have questions or need more information about my services, please don’t hesitate to reach out. You can contact me at (801) 317-8225. I welcome the opportunity to discuss how ABA therapy and support can benefit your child or teen. With the right resources and a supportive community, every child has the potential to thrive. I look forward to partnering with you on this journey toward a brighter, more fulfilling future for your child.