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Autism

Is it characteristic of children with ASD to show aggression and anger in trusted environments?

Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) can manifest in different ways in each person. Although not all children with autism exhibit aggression and lack of anger management, some may experience emotional and behavioral difficulties, including episodes of aggression, particularly in stressful situations or challenging environments.

One factor that can trigger these outbursts of anger in trusted environments is that in untrusted environments the person has had to hold back a lot, and when they get home, for example, they explode, releasing all the anger they have been holding back at school.

Some girls with ASD may also have difficulty regulating their emotions, which can trigger these behaviors. This can be especially evident during adolescence, when hormonal changes and social demands can increase anxiety and stress.

After an episode of aggression, feelings of guilt are also a common response in children with ASD, who may feel distressed by their behavior and have difficulty understanding and managing their emotions appropriately.

In any case, outbursts of anger are a way of communicating distress, and emotional management and self-awareness work should be done, providing the individual with tools and strategies for self-regulation. It is highly recommended to seek evaluation and support from professionals specializing in autism spectrum disorder, who can provide a more accurate assessment and offer appropriate intervention strategies to help the child and their trusted support network.