Autism and
Bullying: Making the Connection
April is recognized as Autism Awareness Month. In many cities across the nation, buildings
are adorned with blue lights brightly shining to bring attention to the issue. Autism is a brain disorder that ranges from mild
to severe. Individuals also have a wide
range of abilities and challenges because of the disorder. Some children are highly skilled in math and
reasoning abilities but have social or emotional limitations. Signs of autism
generally start to surface between the ages of 18 months to 2 years old. Autistic
children typically tend to avoid eye contact, and physical contact such as touching,
and have limited verbal skills. Children
with autism might face continued challenges developing communication and social
skills. Ultimately, these challenges can make fitting in at school difficult.
Bullying is repeated physical or verbal intimidation that
continues over time. Bullying behavior
also includes making threats, isolating or intentionally excluding a person from
a group. Autism and bullying might be
linked because of the exclusion and isolation that exists as a result a child’s
limited social skills. Children with
limited social skills sometimes draw negative attention and become a new target for a bully. It is important that we continue making the connection between autism and bullying as well as other mental or physical challenges that lead to a bully’s intimidation.
Asperger’s Syndrome is a disorder that falls within the
spectrum of Autism. Although children
with Asperger syndrome often possess superior academic or artistic abilities,
they can become the brunt of jokes, teasing, and bullying waged by classmates
or peers. Parents, teachers and
classmates must work together to ensure that all children feel included and
accepted in their school community. Students diagnosed with Autism and
Asperger’s may qualify for special education services including the
implementation of an Individual Education Plan or IEP. Parents, teachers, and other school officials
need to possess current knowledge that enables understanding and making a
possible connection between autism and bullying.
The Bully Blockers: Standing Up for Classmates with Autism
Asperger Syndrome and Bullying: Strategies and Solutions
Asperger Syndrome and Bullying: Strategies and Solutions
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Every individual is uniquely talented in different ways and should
be valued as such. Research points to
the fact that special needs students, including physically and developmentally
challenged students are often bullied. School rules, regulations, and laws outline
formalized policies against bullying or harassment and school personnel must
work diligently to ensure a safe environment for all students. School officials and parents must stay
abreast of research and information to understand the intricacies of autism and
bullying.
I encourage you to review the website www.stopbullying.gov for additional information on legislation in
your particular state. Let us give support
to students striving to fit into a world that does not readily make allowances
for differences. Take a stand against
bullying and use your voice for individuals who are sometimes unable to speak on
their own behalf.
