by Ellen Page

Created on: November 05, 2011   Last Updated: January 30, 2012

Autistic children can become distressed for many reasons, just like any other person in difficult situations. However, there are many more reasons for an autistic child to become distressed, which can cause a lot of pain for both the child and the parents. It can take time to understand that an autistic child is troubled for a reason. Knowing the reasons behind the distress can greatly help them to lead a more peaceful life.

Here is a look at the reasons an autistic child can be distressed:

• Lack of understanding

Autistic children can become distressed for the same reasons as any other child, as well as for other reasons that may seem harder to detect. They are experiencing difficulties of some kind to become agitated. Autistic children have limited understanding of the world around them, and they can find it difficult to process information. In addition, they can lack understanding of communication and may even lack speech and social skills. These deficiencies can cause great distress in many situations.

• Finding the triggers

Autistic children can be sensitive to certain situations such as bright lights, sounds and social situations, which may cause anxiety. Being aware of these triggers can help to reduce the distress caused. If certain situations seem to cause anguish to an autistic child, changes can be made to avoid upset. Making simple changes can bring about peace for the autistic child. Observing the child and watching for triggers can help to establish the reasons why they are distressed.

• Sensitivities that cause distress

If an autistic child gets distressed in certain situations such as in noisy environments, or from certain noises, this can help to identify the cause. Knowing the reasons allows changes to be made to avoid situations that cause great distress. New techniques can be learned to help the autistic child cope in these situations. Sometimes gradual exposure with reassurance can help the autistic child to adapt to difficult situations. Even giving a verbal or non verbal cue can help them to understand and cope better with the situation.

• Lack of communication

Autistic children can become distressed from lack of understanding of language or activities. Simple everyday activities can cause distress, as the autistic child can find it difficult to follow activities. It can take an autistic child longer to learn how to follow an activity, needing great patience and time. They may also lack communication skills which can cause great distress, as they struggle to make their thoughts and feelings known. Lack of communication can be very difficult for the autistic child, and the parents.

• Change in routine

Another reason can be a change in routine, as a small change can cause great distress to an autistic child. Children need structure and routine. Autistic children come to learn certain routines, and any slight change can cause them great distress, as it can cause confusion. Simple changes to the day’s structure can cause confusion and upset. Without warning, an autistic child can find changes difficult, and even with fair warning the change can still cause a certain amount of distress.

Autistic children have limited understanding of the world around them, and they develop differently and take longer to process information. This lack of understanding can cause great distress in many situations. Careful observation of the child can reveal the reasons for the distress which can be addressed to help the autistic child find peace.

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