Dr. Malcolm answers parents’ questions and addresses their concerns.

By Dr. Ronald I. Malcolm, EdD

Concerned Parent from Australia, Northern Hunter region asks:

What is the best anger management for autistic teens with (higher) intelligence and some social understanding, but not enough to control their anger? What programs or learning techniques are available?

We do work through a psychologist, but who or what else (should we) look for?

Teens with autism and higher intelligence, as well as some social understanding, may struggle to control their anger. This can also be true of neurotypical teens.

While one behavioral program does not work for all teens, some strategies can be used to assist teens with autism in self-regulating their anger.

Listen to your teen

Many teens, including those with autism, will often say they want to be left alone when angry. This may be a coping strategy.

Trying to engage with them while they are angry may escalate the situation further.

It is important as a parent to honor their desire to be left alone for a certain period. This will show them that you will listen to them and give them the space they are requesting.