Our free newsletter
offers tips and tools
you need to create
a happier and
healthier family!

Categories


All Articles
CALL: (888) 972-7736

Therapeutic schools may prevent autistic teens from being bullied

By Staff Writer

Every day, thousands of teens are bullied by their peers, putting them at risk for mental health problems, stress, depression, anxiety and low self-esteem, the Nemours Foundation reports.

Researchers at Queens University recently found that teen boys between the ages of 12 and 18 who have an autism spectrum disorder are bullied more than other youths. The professionals defined bullying as name-calling, creating rumors, group exclusion and intimidation.

The study found that autistic children tend to have lower IQs and a diminished ability to make proper judgement calls. However, these two factors did not seem to affect bullying. The report indicates that what put teens at a higher risk for being victimized by their peers was their lessened ability to manage stress and maintain control of their emotions. These two symptoms make it difficult for youths who have autism to express their own thoughts or recognize the emotions of others.

Parents who believe that their autistic child or teen is being bullied, or is at risk for being bullied, may want to research therapeutic schools. The faculties at many of these institutions are trained to manage and support youths with autism and other disorders.

Share |