Coping Method for Teens with Asperger
Syndrome

The benefits of using a coping method for teens with Asperger syndrome are many.

Special issues for autistic teens

Teens who have Asperger often experience difficulty in several areas, one of which is socialization. Some Asperger teens are very social, though sometimes they may interact in inappropriate ways. Their peers may not understand their methods of communication and avoid them whenever possible. These very social teens who have Asperger syndrome often do not understand the word "tact". They blurt out statements that are offensive, believing them to be funny. They may act in an embarrassing manner to gain attention, and they may be uncomfortably blunt in their opinions about people or subjects.

On the other end of the spectrum are those teens who avoid socialization with others. They would rather sit alone, and they may be quite standoffish to the point of appearing rude as well. These teens may be extremely smart in specific areas, such as writing, math, or some form of the arts. Their extreme intelligence may make them act superior to those who are less accomplished in these areas, and this can create tension and destroy relationships. These teens may actually crave the friendship and peer interaction that the rest of their classmates have, but they don't know how to go about getting it.

Can a coping method for teens with Asperger syndrome really help? There are actually several methods that should be considered.

• TEACCH-The Treatment and Education of Autistic and Related Communication Handicapped Children/Adults focuses on the visual aspects of communication. This is particularly important for those who have little or no verbal skills. One of the simplest methods associated with this plan is to show photos or pictures of whatever behavior or activity is expected while verbalizing that expectation as well. This method can help calm a teen with Asperger and help him cope with any confusion he might be encountering.
• SPELL-The Structure, Positive, Empathy, Low Arousal, Links method focuses more on intervention methods to help teens with Asperger cope. Structure emphasizes order in a teen's world. Using positive reinforcement build's a teen's self-esteem, enabling him to cope more easily with changes in his daily schedule and with social encounters as well. Those who come in contact with an Asperger teen must be educated in order to gain empathy for his or her situation. Low arousal refers to controlling the environment around the teen as much as possible by limiting undue noise and confusion and using relaxation methods, such as massage and music to calm him. The word "links" refers to the connection between all of those involved in the child's life.
• Social Networking-There are many social networking sites available on the Internet for teens with Asperger. A social networking site can be a great coping method for teens with Asperger syndrome. Many of these sites offer support groups where teens can interact with others who also are autistic. There are drawbacks to these sites, however. Teens sometimes become so dependent on their virtual friends that they become obsessed with their time on the computer and refuse to interact with those around them. Risks could also include encounters with cyberbullies and pedophiles, so parents should monitor their child's Internet activities carefully.

• Coping: A Survival Guide for People with Asperger Syndrome is a book written by Marc Segar, who had Asperger Syndrome. Marc was killed in a traffic accident in 1997, but his book leaves behind a powerful legacy of life with this condition. For more insight and/or to order this book, visit the website.

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• About Aspergers Syndrome
• Coping Mechanisms for Teens with Asperger Syndrome
• Category:Asperger Syndrome